When Is The Earliest You Can File Taxes?

How early can you file your tax return, when does the IRS start accepting returns, how can you get started before the IRS opens, and what does this all mean for your tax refund?

When is the earliest I can file?

Because so many of our clients are excited to get their refunds, we get asked all the time, “When is the earliest I can file my federal tax return?”

You cannot technically file your federal taxes until the IRS starts accepting returns. However, you can begin to fill out your return with a pay stub, and complete it when you have your W-2 form or other necessary tax documents. Tax-preparation services can also help with this.

You can prepare and submit your return as soon as you receive your W-2s from your employers and have all the relevant information and documents. Most W-2s arrive in mid-January, but employers have until January 31, 2020 to send W-2s and Forms 1099, so you could receive yours as late as early February.

Ask a Tax Pro

I’m concerned about ID theft. How can I protect myself while filing my taxes?

File as soon as you have all your W-2s and other income information. E-filing is the safest way to file, as e-filed tax returns are specially encrypted for extra security.

How Fast Will You Get Your Tax Refund this Year?

When it comes to taxes, one of the most important questions we are often asked at Jackson Hewitt is, “Will I get a tax refund?” When the answer turns out to be “YES!,” this good news leads almost immediately to clients asking, “How fast can I get my refund?” For millions of Americans, your tax refund feels like the biggest paycheck you’ll receive all year so filing your taxes is your most important financial transaction.1

How do I File Taxes if I’m Self-Employed?

Are you self-employed? Here's how to determine if you are self-employed, what you can deduct from your self-employment income, and how self-employment affects your tax return.

Why Jackson Hewitt^®?

We’ll work hard for you

Our Tax Pros will answer your questions, provide tax tips, and help you get smarter about your money.

We know our stuff

Jackson Hewitt is a leader in the tax industry, having prepared millions of tax returns in more than 35 years.

We’ll make it easy

We’re committed to helping you, fast and efficiently. Taxes done how you want and when you want.