After you file

2022 income is filed on a 2022 tax return only.  If you are a W-2 employee and you received paychecks in 2022, you should have received a W-2 from your employer.  If you are self-employed, you are required to report your own income and expenses from your own accurate records even if you don't get forms like 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC.  

 

If you never file, the IRS will create a return for you in their computer.  They will take your income, but they won't give you credit for deductions or credits.  If they think you owe tax, they will send you a bill with late fees and penalties.  If they think you might be due a refund, they will not pay it.  You must file a return to get any refund you might be owed.  You have until April 18, 2026 to file your 2022 return to get a refund.  You can buy the 2022 version of Turbotax to install on your own computer, or prepare a return by hand using the paper forms and instructions, or see a professional.

 

For 2023, you report only income paid in 2023, and any deductions or credits for 2023.  Don't add any 2022 income.  If this will be the first year you filed (because you didn't file last year and this is the first time you have worked) then I believe you can pick a 5 digit e-file PIN code that you will use to verify your identity next year.   If you have previously e-filed a tax return (but skipped last year only), you might be blocked from e-filing this year.  Try zero as your 2022 AGI when e-filing, and if that doesn't work, you can print your return, sign it, and mail it in.