The 2025 tax season officially kicked off on Monday, when the Internal Revenue Service began accepting and processing individual income tax returns at 9 a.m. This means that you could be more likely to receive your tax refund sometime in February — if you file early.

Tax season is underway, and the IRS expects 140 million people will file returns by April 15. If you file your tax return electronically, the IRS says it should take 21 days or fewer to receive your refund.

To reduce your risk of falling victim to tax scams, consider these steps: File Early: This helps prevent identity theft and fraudulent filings. Use Secure Networks: When filing online, ensure your internet connection is secure. Monitor Your Tax Accounts: Create an IRS account to track filings and refunds.