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Tax Filing Season Kicks Off: Tips to Save Time and Stress

Today marks the beginning of the 2025 federal tax filing season, as the IRS starts accepting tax returns from taxpayers across the nation. Jackson Hewitt Tax Services is urging individuals to file early for a smoother experience and the potential for a larger refund. With the deadline set for April 15, 2026, now's the time to prepare and get ahead of the game.

According to a survey conducted by Jackson Hewitt, a significant 69% of respondents identify themselves as "eager" taxpayers who prefer to file as soon as possible. Interestingly, 75% indicated they would be more inclined to file early if they anticipated receiving a larger refund than in past years, which is very much possible this tax season due to recent tax law adjustments and inflation considerations.

The Benefits of Early Tax Filing

Mark Steber, Chief Tax Officer at Jackson Hewitt, highlights three main advantages of early tax filing:

1. Protection Against Fraud: Filing early can help safeguard against identity theft and fraudulent claims. Once a Social Security number is used for a return, it cannot be reused for the same tax year. By filing promptly, taxpayers can secure their personal information from potential scammers.

2. Faster Refunds: Early filing can expedite the refund process. The IRS typically processes refunds within 21 days of receipt, allowing taxpayers to see their money sooner. For those who might owe taxes, filing early provides additional time to gather the necessary funds before the April tax deadline.

3. Extended Time for Preparation: Starting the filing process ahead of schedule gives taxpayers more time to collect necessary documentation. This is especially critical for those eligible for new deductions linked to overtime pay, tip earnings, and other situations arising from recent tax law changes.

Exclusive Promotions and Opportunities

To incentivize early filing, Jackson Hewitt has introduced a limited-time promotion for new clients. From now until February 22, 2026, new clients can receive $100 when they file their tax returns at participating Jackson Hewitt locations. This initiative further underscores the company’s commitment to making tax filing simpler and more affordable for clients.

Research indicates that a significant portion of taxpayers (52%) plan to enlist the help of a tax professional to guide them through the filing process, especially for complicated situations like self-employment or having multiple income sources across states. Taxpayers prioritize receiving refunds, minimizing owed taxes, and ensuring they claim all pertinent credits and deductions.

However, it's worth noting that there's still confusion around certain tax aspects; for example, nearly 44% of survey participants did not fully understand how unemployment benefits will impact their tax returns this season.

Taxpayers seeking assistance or tips can easily visit Jackson Hewitt’s website at jacksonhewitt.com to find applicable resources and local offices for support.

About Jackson Hewitt

With over 5,100 locations across the country, including franchises within Walmart, Jackson Hewitt is dedicated to providing straightforward, cost-effective solutions that help individuals navigate the complexities of tax filing. Their services are backed by maximum refund guarantees and a commitment to accuracy, aiming for peace of mind for their clients.

As this tax season unfolds, remember that proactive financial planning can alleviate stress and lead to better outcomes. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start collecting your documents and consider reaching out to a tax professional today.