Recent tax season data reveals notable trends when comparing 2014 to 2013, particularly in electronic filing and overall submission volumes. The statistics demonstrate an evolving landscape for individual income tax filings, with one striking development: While total e-filings increased, submissions from tax professionals showed a decline.

Electronic Filing Dynamics

The 2014 tax season saw 68.97 million e-filed returns, up 1.4% from 2013's 68.03 million. However, professional tax preparers submitted 1.8% fewer electronic returns—declining from 40.12 million to 39.41 million. This shift coincides with growing adoption of self-service options, as self-prepared e-filings jumped 5.9% from 27.91 million to 29.55 million.

Digital Engagement Changes

IRS website traffic showed contrasting movement, with 195.6 million visits in March 2014 compared to 218.5 million the previous year—a 10.4% decrease . This suggests changing patterns in how taxpayers access information and potentially reflects broader shifts in digital platform usage.

Refund Patterns

Refund statistics indicate:

• 61.65 million refunds issued in 2014 ( 2.3% increase from 60.24 million)
• Total refund value grew 4.2% to $179.79 billion from $172.49 billion
• Average refund amount rose 1.9% to $2,917 from $2,863

Direct deposit refunds showed modest growth:

• 52.77 million direct deposits ( 0.7% increase )
• Total value: $158.98 billion ( 0.8% increase )
• Average direct deposit remained stable between $3,010–$3,013

Conclusion

The 2014 tax season data illustrates technology's growing influence on tax compliance, with electronic and self-service options gaining traction. While professional services experienced some contraction, the overall increase in processed returns—particularly through self-preparation channels—demonstrates how digital tools are helping taxpayers more easily fulfill their obligations.