Tax deductions, tax credit amounts, and some tax laws have changed since you filed your last federal income tax return.

The tax season is officially open. Monday, Jan. 27 is the first day you can file your returns. They may not be due until April 15, but getting a head start will get you a quicker refund. Or give you more time to save if you owe the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) some cash.

Direct File can help you cut out the tax season middlemen, and this year, the IRS is bringing out new features.