Tax Season Preparations: Essential Tips to Ease Your Filing Process for 2025

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tax Season Tips Are Here as New Year Approaches!

As the new year approaches, the clock is ticking down to tax season, and the Department of Revenue (SCDOR) in South Carolina is eager to help you get ready. Although 2025 seems far away, they urge everyone to start organizing their tax documents now to make the filing process simpler and save some serious time and headaches!

Did you know that in 2023, tax fraud cost Americans a staggering $5.5 billion? That’s a lot of cash lost! To combat this, the SCDOR has put together a list of helpful tips to ensure your tax return is accurate and submitted by you—not an impersonator. So, let’s dive into these 10 essential tips that both individuals and tax professionals should keep in mind as we gear up for tax season.

1. Mark Your Calendar: Tax Returns are Due May 1st!

Due to relief measures after Hurricane Helene, South Carolina residents have an extended filing deadline. Individual Income Tax returns are now due on May 1, 2025. If you’re filing elsewhere, check to see if your state’s deadline remains at the traditional April 15 date. You wouldn’t want to miss it!

2. Organization is Key

First things first: gather all documents that could affect your return. This includes W-2s, 1099s, and any other tax-related forms, so everything is easily accessible when filing begins. Keeping it all in one spot will cut down on last-minute scrambling!

3. Hold That Pay Stub!

It might be tempting to file right away using your year-end pay stub, but don’t do it! Your pay stub might not match what’s reported on your W-2, leading to delays in processing. So, wait until you have your official W-2 in hand before you file.

4. File Online for Speed

Filing electronically is the way to go. It’s faster, easier, and more secure compared to paper returns. Plus, e-filing keeps a record of your state and federal returns for you. Check out your options at dor.sc.gov/iit-filing.

5. Know MyDORWAY for Payment

If you think you’ll owe money when you file, make sure you familiarize yourself with MyDORWAY. After submitting your return, you can easily pay your balance online at dor.sc.gov/pay, and you don’t even need to create an account!

6. Keep Your Address Up-to-Date

Whether you’re expecting a direct deposit refund or not, keeping your address updated is crucial. If there’s a need for the SCDOR to reach you about your return, they will mail you a notice. For MyDORWAY users, it’s easy to manage your info, but those without it can use the SC8822I form to update their address.

7. For Tax Professionals: Renew Your PTIN

If you prepare taxes for clients, don’t forget to renew your IRS-issued Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) by December 31, 2024. It usually takes only about 15 minutes to complete the process, and it costs $19.75.

8. Manage Power of Attorney

Tax pros, be sure to revoke any power of attorney or third-party authorization forms for clients you no longer represent. This is important for keeping taxpayer records secure.

9. Encourage Direct Deposit

Make sure your clients choose the SCDOR’s direct deposit option for their refunds—the fastest way to get money back! Before submitting their returns, this is an essential step to ensure they don’t miss out on a quick refund.

10. Find Help Anytime!

Lastly, whether you’re filing taxes yourself or working with a pro, don’t hesitate to seek additional help. The SCDOR offers resources such as their YouTube channel and articles to assist taxpayers around the clock.

As we slide into 2025, take a breather knowing that you’re prepared. You’ve got this! Tax season doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With a little organization and the right resources, you can file your taxes confidently.