IRS expands self-service online tools for tax tasks

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The IRS is highlighting a growing suite of online tools at IRS.gov that let taxpayers handle common tax matters without calling or visiting an office. Through a free Individual Online Account, users can view balances by tax year, make or schedule payments up to 365 days in advance, access past tax returns and W-2/1099 documents, check refund status, view IRS notices, and get an Identity Protection PIN — a number that prevents someone else from filing a return in your name.

The IRS also reminded taxpayers that it never initiates contact by email, text, or social media to request personal or financial information. Anyone receiving such a message claiming to be from the IRS should not click links, open attachments, or respond. All legitimate IRS online services are accessed only through IRS.gov.