The IRS is making it easier for folks to file their taxes this year. Starting this week, the IRS can process returns that have the depreciation and amortization forms, and the education credits forms. Those forms affected the largest group of taxpayers who weren't able to file following the January 30th opening of the 2013 tax season. Our Meg Smith explains.

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UNITED STATES -- April 15th is fast approaching, and IRS Spokesman Mark Hanson says now that fiscal cliff negotiations are finally over, most folks can now file their taxes.

Hanson says, "There were some late tax law changes that the IRS had to update computer systems to take into account. Most taxpayers were able to file by January 30th; however, there were some exceptions."

Both of those exceptions have now been cleared. The first was with the education credit form that's used by taxpayers who have higher education expenses.

Hanson says, "There is the lifetime learning credit and the American opportunity tax credit. Chances are if you're paying for college for yourself or a dependent, you might be eligible for one of these tax credits. It's a significant amount of savings that can help you pay for many of those higher education expenses."

The second exception was with the depreciation and amortization form, used primarily by small business owners.

Hanson says, "This is another group that faced an extended delay. Now you'll be able to file your federal income tax return and face the normal time table for getting your refund if you do one."

All taxpayers still facing delays will be able to file starting the first week in March.

The IRS encourages taxpayers to use their "free file" website, where you can use a program to prepare and e-file your federal income tax return, at no cost. That website is www.freefile.irs.gov .