Current News from the IRS: Key Updates and Announcements
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a crucial entity in the United States, responsible for tax collection and enforcement of tax laws. As of early 2025, the IRS has been actively updating the public on various initiatives, tax filing seasons, and special payments aimed at assisting taxpayers. Below is a comprehensive overview of the latest news and updates from the IRS.
1. Current News Releases
The IRS maintains a dedicated page for current news releases, which can be accessed here. This page provides a listing of all recent announcements, including guidance on tax treatments and reporting requirements. For instance, on January 15, 2025, the IRS issued guidance regarding the income and employment tax treatment of contributions and benefits under state-paid family and medical leave programs.
Notable Recent Announcements:
- IR-2024-314 (Dec. 20, 2024): The IRS announced plans to issue automatic payments to approximately 1 million taxpayers who did not claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on their 2021 tax returns. This initiative aims to ensure that eligible taxpayers receive the benefits they are entitled to.
- IR-2025-08 (Jan. 10, 2025): The IRS confirmed that the 2025 tax filing season will commence on January 27, 2025. This season will feature enhanced tools and options for taxpayers, reflecting the agency's ongoing modernization efforts.
2. Tax Updates and News
The IRS has a dedicated section for tax updates and news, which can be found here. This section is designed to provide critical updates that may affect tax filings, including information on clean vehicle and energy credits, and recent developments regarding the Employee Retention Credit (ERC).
Key Updates:
- The IRS continues to urge employers to review their ERC claims, as there is a limited time to resolve any incorrect claims.
- The agency is also focusing on providing timely reminders and guidance for taxpayers preparing their returns or awaiting processing of refunds.
3. Special Payments for Taxpayers
In a significant move to assist taxpayers, the IRS announced that it will issue special payments to those who missed claiming the Recovery Rebate Credit. This initiative is part of the IRS's broader efforts to support taxpayers and ensure they receive the credits they are eligible for. The announcement was made on December 20, 2024, and highlights the IRS's commitment to addressing taxpayer needs.
4. Upcoming Tax Filing Season
The IRS has officially announced the start of the 2025 tax filing season on January 27, 2025. This season will include:
- The Free File program, which is now open.
- Direct File options available for taxpayers in 25 states.
This announcement reflects the IRS's ongoing efforts to enhance tools and filing options for taxpayers, making the process more accessible and efficient.
5. Criminal Investigation Updates
The IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) division has released its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report, detailing significant cases involving tax fraud, cybercrime, and other criminal activities. This report underscores the IRS's commitment to enforcing tax laws and maintaining the integrity of the tax system.
6. Restoring Fairness in the Tax System
In a historic announcement on September 8, 2023, the IRS outlined a sweeping effort to restore fairness in the tax system. This initiative is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and focuses on increasing compliance efforts, particularly targeting high-income earners, partnerships, and large corporations that may be abusing tax laws.
7. Additional Resources and Information
For those seeking more information, the IRS provides various resources:
- Topics in the News: This section includes items of current interest, new programs, and timely reminders for taxpayers. It can be accessed here.
- Criminal Investigation Press Releases: For updates on criminal investigations and enforcement actions, visit the IRS Criminal Investigation page.
The IRS is actively working to improve taxpayer services and ensure compliance with tax laws. With the upcoming tax filing season and various initiatives aimed at assisting taxpayers, it is essential for individuals to stay informed about the latest updates and resources available. For more detailed information, taxpayers can visit the official IRS website and explore the various sections dedicated to news, updates, and resources.
For ongoing updates, you can also check the IRS newsroom here.
