Here you'll find items of current interest — new programs, recent guidance or timely reminders.
Tax updates and news from the IRS
The Tax updates and news from the IRS page is designed to help anyone whether they are now preparing their tax return or are awaiting processing of a return or refund. It also has the latest updates on IRS letters and notices. Newer updates will be placed at the top of that page. The IRS will also provide critical updates through social media.
IRS offers relief to Tropical Storm Francine victims in Louisiana
IRS announced tax relief for taxpayers in the entire state of Louisiana affected by Tropical Storm Francine that began on Sept. 10, 2024. These taxpayers now have until Feb. 3, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.
Tax relief for victims of severe storms and flooding in Connecticut and New York
IRS announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in Connecticut and New York affected by severe storms and flooding from torrential rainfalls that began on Aug. 18, 2024. Taxpayers now have until Feb. 3, 2025, to file various federal and business tax returns and make tax payments.
$1.3 billion recovered from high-income individuals under IRA initiatives
U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen and Commissioner of the IRS Danny Werfel announced new milestones under Inflation Reduction Act initiatives to ensure wealthy individuals pay taxes owed, improve service for taxpayers through the Digital First Initiative and modernize foundational technology.
IRA funding helps modernize IRS online tools
The IRS continues to modernize online tools thanks to funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), creating new, fully electronic processes and systems, updating legacy systems, improving compliance and fraud mitigation.
September is National Preparedness Month
The IRS reminds taxpayers to develop an emergency preparedness plan or, if they already have one, to update it for 2024. In the aftermath of a disaster, having updated documents and other information readily available can help victims apply for the relief available from the IRS and other agencies.
Important tax guidelines involving online crowdfunding
The IRS reminds taxpayers that crowdfunding distributions may be includible in the gross income of the person receiving them depending on the facts and circumstances. The crowdfunding website or its payment processor may be required to report distributions of money raised if the amount distributed meets certain reporting thresholds.
Tax relief for Ernesto victims in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
The IRS announced tax relief for individuals and businesses throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands affected by Tropical Storm Ernesto that began on Aug. 13, 2024. Taxpayers now have until Feb. 3, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments.
Back-to-school reminder for schoolteachers
The IRS reminds schoolteachers that the maximum deduction for classroom expenses in 2024 is $300. This deduction allows educators to offset the cost of supplies, materials and other classroom essentials, providing some financial relief for those who spend their own money to improve their students' learning experience.
Child and Dependent Care tax credit can help with summer day camp costs
Taxpayers who paid for the care of a child, or other qualifying person, so they could work or look for work may be able to take the credit for child and dependent care expenses. Unlike overnight camps, the cost of day camp may count as an expense towards the Child and Dependent Care credit.
ERC voluntary disclosure program reopens
The IRS announced a second ERC Voluntary Disclosure Program that allows businesses to correct improper payments at a 15% discount and avoid future audits, penalties and interest. The program is open through Nov. 22, 2024.
IRS provides extension filers summertime help ahead of October deadline
The IRS encourages taxpayers who requested an extension of time to file their taxes to consider using IRS Free File and other resources on IRS.gov to help them file over the summer rather than waiting for the October deadline. There’s no need to wait if taxpayers are ready to file. Taking advantage of the resources available at IRS.gov can help individuals avoid a possible deadline crunch later this fall.
Check the status of your refund
Taxpayers can track their refund easily and conveniently with the IRS Where's My Refund? tool at IRS.gov/refunds and with the IRS2Go app.
Refund status is available within 24 hours of the IRS letting the taxpayer know that they got the e-filed return. The tool also gives the taxpayer a personalized refund date after the IRS processes the return and approves the refund.