Mon Feb 17 11:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Tax Season is Here: IRS Offers Tips for Speedy Refunds and Avoiding Audits

**Washington, D.C. –** With Valentine’s Day behind us, taxpayers are reminded that the April 15th tax deadline is rapidly approaching. The IRS has begun accepting 2024 tax returns, giving individuals just over two months to file. To avoid potential audits and ensure timely refunds, the IRS offers several key recommendations.

This year’s federal income tax brackets remain largely unchanged, with seven brackets for single filers and a separate set for those married filing jointly. The IRS emphasizes that only the portion of income falling into a higher bracket is taxed at that higher rate, not the entire income. (Specific bracket rates are available on the IRS website and in the original article).

For those filing electronically, the IRS estimates refunds will arrive within a month, typically within 21 days of filing. Taxpayers can track their refund status using the IRS’ “Where’s My Refund” tool, available online within 24 hours of e-filing.

The deadline for filing federal taxes is April 15, 2025, with an October 15th extension available for those needing additional time. State tax deadlines vary; in Ohio, for example, the deadline also falls on April 15th, with an October 15th extension. Several online tax services offer refund estimators to help individuals prepare. The IRS encourages careful and accurate filing to minimize the risk of an audit.

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