HONOLULU (KHON2) — Tax season has officially begun according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Taxation, and the department wants taxpayers to know some crucial information so they can avoid unnecessary delays and frustration during the often confusing process.

The department says to start gathering and organizing tax records, such as W-2s or HW-2s. Other important documents taxpayers could have are Wage and Tax Statements, Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments and Form 1099-K.

They also recommend filing early, as it is the best way to prevent cybercriminals from stealing your tax refund. The IRS will be open for tax season on Jan. 27, with the deadline for filing or requesting an extension is April 15.

For those who have been victims of identity theft or would like to receive additional protection measures, Hawaiʻi Department of Taxation has an ID Theft Protection Program, which can be accessed online. Those enrolled in the program will be notified when a tax return is filed with their name and Social Security number, and taxpayers will be able to verify the information.

It is also recommended that taxpayers file online, as e-filing improves accuracy, provides verification that your tax return was filed and processes faster, allowing for a quicker delivery of your tax return.

Using direct deposit is also the quickest and safest way to receive your tax refund, as processing times are longer for taxpayers who receive their refunds via check.

Also be sure to double-check all of your information, as errors in your files can create processing delays and adjustments to your submission, which takes additional time.

Taxpayers can check the status of their income tax return online and clicking on “Check Your Refund Status.” Those interested in viewing their status online will need their Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and the exact refund amount claimed, as shown on your tax return.

For more information, visit the department’s frequently asked questions page, or call (808) 587-4242 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.