The IRS will begin accepting 2017 tax returns on January 29.  If this seems later than usual, blame the December passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.  Like many Americans, the IRS needs time to assess the ramifications of the new law.

This isn’t the first time the federal tax season has been delayed.  Thanks to the “fiscal cliff” law, 2012 returns weren’t accepted until January 30, 2013.  And a two-week government shutdown in 2013 caused a delay until January 31, 2014.

Remember that you can always have your tax return prepared before the acceptance date.  Your tax advisor will automatically submit it at the proper time.