BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- The 2025 tax season is here, as Monday was the first day to file 2024 tax returns with the IRS.
Experts said the earlier you can file your taxes, the better. Having documents and information ready can make the process easy and save you from headaches down the road.
Accountant Scott Barringer, the owner of Barringer CPA, said filing taxes is not as hard as some think. Online services and the IRS website make the process simple if you have the documentation needed ready to go.
“For most individuals, a W-2 is going to be all that they need, " Barringer said. "I would also recommend have handy your bank account information. Most people will be getting refunds, and it is advisable to get those refunds direct deposited into your bank account."
Those reasons and more have Tiffany Reynolds filing her own taxes in 2025. She said she got a head start on getting all her paperwork to get her refund as quickly as possible.
“Normally, I have it before my son’s birthday. His birthday is the 20th of February," Reynolds said. "Normally, I get it the 17th, so I can do something for him."
Barringer said there are other things you can do to maximize your refund.
“Homeowners are able to deduct mortgage interest as well as property taxes," Barringer said. "Most people also have charitable contributions that can also be deductible."
The 2024 federal tax return deadline is April 15. Barringer said it takes anywhere from 3-6 weeks to get your tax refund after you file.