IRS Experiencing Backlogs As Tax Season Begins

Tax season starts 17 days earlier this year, but that doesn't mean that you will get your tax return money faster.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, the IRS is experiencing a huge backlog.

Refunds were delayed last year for about 30,000,000 taxpayers, and it's expected again this year.

The IRS has experienced staffing shortages and shut down offices due to COVID-19.

This year's recommendation is to start preparing the paperwork now and file online.

Something that changed for 2021 was the child tax credit.

Mark Steber, with Jackson Hewitt, said most parents only got half the money owed.

The IRS is now sending out letters to help people properly file for the rest.

Unemployment benefits are taxable, while stimulus checks are not, but still need to be reported on 2021 tax returns.

The IRS said if you are waiting on your 2020 tax return, enter $0 for last year's adjusted gross income on this year's taxes.

They have free resources available for those who need help.

The deadline to file is April 18th.

 Another change on the way that starts this summer is users will need a government-issued ID and a selfie, among other verification, to confirm their identity.