Post-Tax Season Checklist — What to Do After April 15

The April 15 tax filing deadline has passed and it’s tempting to forget about taxes until next year. Before you move on, please take a few final steps to ensure everything is completed for your 2024 return—and set yourself up for a smoother 2025 season.

Check your return status

If you filed electronically, you or your tax preparer should receive confirmation from the IRS within 2–3 business days. No confirmation? Be sure to follow up.

Confirm your tax payment was processed

• If you scheduled your payment to be auto deducted on April 15, verify that the funds have been withdrawn. Some banks take longer to process.
• If it’s been more than a week and the funds haven’t been debited, contact IRS e-File Payment Services at 1-888-353-4537. (Wait 7–10 days after your return was accepted before calling.)

Track your refund

• Electronic filers with direct deposit: Expect refunds within 21 days.
• Paper filers: Refunds usually arrive within 6–8 weeks.

Track the status of your refund

• Online: Where’s My Refund?
• Phone: Call the IRS TeleTax System at 1-800-829-4477
• Be ready with your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount.

Review your filed return

Even if we prepared your return, it’s wise to review it for your own understanding. A better grasp of your tax situation helps with:

• Future planning conversations
• Withholding accuracy — Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to ensure your paycheck withholding is on track.
• W-4 adjustments — We’re happy to help you complete a new W-4 or review potential changes throughout the year.

Consider amending if new information surfaces

If a late document (e.g., K-1, 1099-INT) arrives post-filing, don’t ignore it. File Form 1040X to amend your return if the update is substantial. Amending now avoids potential IRS notices, penalties, and interest later.

Retain tax records safely

The IRS recommends keeping copies of returns and related documents, including proof of mailing for at least 3 years. If you need a copy of a prior return, ask us — if we filed for you, we can provide a copy. You may also contact the IRS directly for free copies of your tax transcripts either by mail or phone.

• Mail: Submit Form 4506-T or 4506-T-EZ
• Phone: Call 800-908-9946

Go digital with your financial organization

Simplify next tax season by embracing electronic tools:

• Automate your finances — Online bill pay + financial software downloads.
• Digitally store your records — Scan and upload receipts to your own personal cloud-based storage.
• Use ShareFile — We can set you up with a secure folder to upload documents, access past returns, and streamline communication.

Need help with any of the above?

We’re just a call or message away and always happy to assist you with your post-filing needs, withholding planning, or preparation for next year. As always, should you have questions on this or other matters affecting you or your business, please call 215.675.8364 or email us to speak with a CPA today.

DISCLAIMER: All communications by Wouch, Maloney & Co., LLP intend to provide general information, as of the date of the communication, and may reference information from reputable sources. Although our firm has made every reasonable effort to ensure that the information provided is accurate, we make no warranties, expressed or implied, on the information provided. Please be aware that this is not a comprehensive analysis of the subject matter covered and is not intended to provide specific recommendations to you or your business with respect to the matters addressed.