This tax season has seen a significant shift in filing preferences, with new data revealing changing patterns in tax management approaches. According to statistics released by the tax authority, as of March 17, 2023, while the total number of submissions showed a slight decrease compared to the same period last year, the number of processed returns actually increased — indicating growing taxpayer confidence in online submissions.
2023 Tax Season: Key Data Insights
Let's examine the trends revealed by these numbers:
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Total returns filed
The 2023 tax season saw 71,861,000 returns filed, representing a 0.5% decrease from 2022's 72,223,000 filings. -
Processed returns
Despite fewer submissions, processed returns increased to 71,455,000 — up 1.6% from 2022's 70,305,000 . -
Electronic filings
Electronic submissions remained stable at 69,774,000 filings, nearly identical to 2022's 69,852,000 . Notably, professionally prepared e-files grew 2.5% to 35,239,000 , while self-prepared e-files declined 2.6% to 34,535,000 . -
Website traffic
Despite flat e-filing numbers, visits to the tax authority's website dropped 20.7% to 345,454,000 from 2022's 435,510,000 , suggesting changing information-seeking behaviors. -
Refund statistics
The 2023 season processed 53,912,000 refunds totaling $158.096 billion . While quantity increased, the total amount fell 7.6% from 2022's $171.137 billion . The average refund decreased 11.3% to $2,933 from $3,305 . -
Direct deposit refunds
50,940,000 direct deposit refunds were issued, totaling $153.800 billion , showing continued preference for electronic payments. However, the average direct deposit refund fell 10.5% to $3,019 .
What These Numbers Reveal
This data paints a clear picture of evolving tax filing and refund patterns, particularly highlighting the growing adoption of electronic filing methods. The decrease in total refund amounts may impact many taxpayers, even as processing efficiency improves.
As digital transformation continues, tax administration faces both new challenges and opportunities. Understanding these trends helps taxpayers navigate the increasingly complex tax landscape, ensuring efficient filing and optimal personal financial management.