3. Avoid delays

The IRS faced significant holdups during last year’s tax season, and millions of forms had yet to be processed by June. If you are expecting a refund, you might want to file early so you can beat the crowds so you can get your money back before everyone else’s tax forms rush in, just in case there are slowdowns again this year.


4. Reduce stress

Imagine how much anxiety you can avoid if instead of procrastinating or worrying about completing your taxes, you take a moment to get it done now. You can then allow your mind to focus on more pleasant thoughts, such as making weekend plans, planning your spring garden, or maybe even figuring out how to get organized so filing your taxes next year won’t be stressful either.


5. Outsmart identity thieves

The later you file your tax return, the more leeway you could be giving identity thieves to get ahold of your social security number, submit a false tax return in your name, and walk away with your refund. To further prevent this from happening, you should also keep your social security number private (create strong passwords for every financial site you use, protect your computer with antivirus software, shred documents containing personal information before tossing them, and get a locking mailbox. Finally, always be on the lookout for phishing scams trying to get your financial information; they sometimes do this by impersonating your bank or another company you trust).

6. Save money on your tax software


If you plan on purchasing tax software to complete your taxes, you might be able to save money on it if you file weeks before April 18, since companies like H&R Block, TaxSlayer, and TurboTax often offer discounts in the beginning of tax season.

7. Get time with your tax preparer

It’s important to get an appointment with a tax preparer as early as possible if you plan on hiring one this tax season—since the closer it is to April 18, the busier they will be. Keep in mind that some preparers set dates for when they will no longer accept forms to prepare. Also, you may be able to pay the professional you hire a lower fee if you can avoid submitting your tax form to them during peak season.