Episode Title: EITC Awareness Day: 50 Years of Helping Working Families

Description: The IRS and national partners are celebrating 50 years of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)! Learn if you qualify for this valuable tax break, which can put thousands of dollars back in your pocket. We'll cover eligibility, how to claim it, and new changes for this tax season. Don't miss out!

Show Notes:

• EITC 50th Anniversary: The IRS and partners launched EITC Awareness Day to highlight this important credit.
• Who's Eligible? Income limits, citizenship requirements, and more. Use the EITC Assistant tool to check your eligibility.
• How Much? The average EITC refund was $2,743 in 2023, with a maximum of $7,830 for families with children in 2024.
• How to Claim: IRS Free File, Direct File, tax professionals, and free VITA/TCE sites.
• New This Year: E-filing with duplicate dependents is now easier with an IP PIN.
• Refund Timing: Expect EITC/ACTC refunds by March 3rd if you file early and choose direct deposit.
• Resources:
• IRS EITC Central: [Link to EITC Central]
• EITC Assistant: [Link to EITC Assistant]
• VITA/TCE Locator: [Link to VITA/TCE Locator]
• Publication 596: [Link to Publication 596]

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Episode Title: Tax Time Made Easy: Top Tips from the IRS

Description: Feeling overwhelmed by tax season? The IRS just released their top 6 tips to make filing your 2024 return smoother. We break down what you need to know, from gathering documents to free filing options. Don't miss out on potential refunds and avoid headaches!

Show Notes:

• IRS released 6 tips to simplify tax filing (IR-2025-19, Jan. 30, 2025)
• Key Documents: Social Security numbers, bank info, W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, digital asset records, 1095-A, IRS letters.
• Report All Income: Online sales, investments, part-time work, self-employment, app-based services.
• File Electronically: Faster refunds, less errors.
• Free Filing Options:
• IRS Free File (income under $84,000)
• Direct File (25 states, expanded support)
• Free File Fillable Forms (for those comfortable with taxes)
• VITA/TCE (free help for eligible taxpayers)
• MilTax (military community)
• Choosing a Filing Method: Self-file, online services, tax professional (check credentials).
• IRS Online Resources: IRS.gov, Interactive Tax Assistant, IRS2Go app, social media.

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Episode Title: Tax Season is Open! What You Need to Know for 2025

Description: The IRS has officially opened the 2025 tax filing season! Millions of returns are already in, and the deadline is April 15th. We break down key dates, free filing options, and how to avoid scams. Get your taxes done right this year!

Show Notes:

• The 2025 tax filing season is officially open as of January 27, 2025.
• The IRS expects over 140 million individual tax returns for tax year 2024.
• The filing deadline is April 15th.
• Free Filing Options:
• IRS Free File (for those with income of $84,000 or less)
• IRS Direct File (available in 25 participating states)
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
• Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)
• MilTax (for military members and some veterans)
• Key Tips:
• File electronically and choose direct deposit for faster refunds.
• Wait for all income documents before filing.
• Use a trusted tax professional.
• Be aware of tax scams.
• New IRS Improvements:
• Enhanced IRS Online Account features.
• New scam alert banner on the Online Account.
• Redesigned notices.
• Mobile-adaptive tax forms.
• Virtual assistants for refund and other questions.
• Refunds: Most refunds issued in less than 21 days, but don't rely on a specific date. EITC/ACTC refunds may be delayed until after mid-February.

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