Start of Tax Season

Today marks the beginning of tax season and the government is warning you to prepare for frustration and delay that may come with the IRS backlogs and staff shortages.

Tax season began today, but the government says you may experience some frustration with the IRS this year. Tax professional of twenty-six years Gloria Wilson of Glorias Tax Services here in Meridian says the same.

“Because of the pandemic the IRS shut down a few years ago and they're short-staffed,” says Wilson. “So, therefore, with them being short-staffed, that’s going to have a delay in your tax return”

The waiting period for tax returns is usually two to three weeks. Wilson says to help in the delay you should prepare for the season throughout the year.

“I say the best time to prepare for tax season is when you finish the last season. January 1st and finish up December 31st getting your paperwork together “stated Gloria. “I suggest that you keep up with all your income, if you have a business keep up with all your receipts on the money you spend.”

Completing an electronic filing this year could also cut back on the waiting period, it’s something the IRS itself is recommending.

“The IRS has been recommending electronic filing for a few years now. Because of the pandemic and the I-R-S is backlogged; it’s going to take longer to have paper returns processed. I encourage everyone to have their taxes filed electronically to have a shorter waiting period.”

Wilson says once you file your taxes, you should give the IRS at least three weeks to update your information before calling, otherwise, you could be stuck waiting on the phone.