More than 30 million taxpayers across the country are eligible to file their federal tax returns completely free-of-charge this year using Direct File, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has said. Tax season is underway, with the IRS currently accepting payments and returns for 2024. The deadline to file is April 15.

Even the smallest or most obvious mistakes can seriously mess up your tax returns, and the IRS has highlighted a few that you'll want to avoid at all costs. The 2025 tax filing season is in full swing,

The IRS has long warned taxpayers of scams targeting them and their personal and financial data, particularly around tax season. The IRS reminds taxpayers to stay vigilant against all the schemes scammers come up with to try and steal their money, information and data, while also warning taxpayers to be smart about filing decisions they make.

The IRS said the average refund amount has increased by 7.5% this year, going from $3,213 in 2024 to $3,453 so far in 2025. The average direct deposit refund was also up by 7.1% from last year – at an average of $3,505. The IRS began accepting tax returns on January 27, 2025.

While scams are always an problem, the IRS is issuing a warning about a “growing concern” during the 2025 tax season. Incorrect tax information spread on social media can mislead otherwise honest taxpayers with bad advice, potentially leading to identity theft, tax problems or even criminal charges.