CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - There's less than two weeks left until the deadline to file your taxes. Springfield officials work together to address federal education funding If you haven't started yet, experts say you should get your documents together and pick a day to get it done before A pril 15th. It's a good idea to submit before the deadline in case there are any issues or you find you need an extension.  Massachusetts residents can use the new Direct File IRS system, which is totally free and works for people with simple returns. There is also an option for filing today, but paying later. The IRS Free File Program is also available through their website that includes software that will look for deductibles, credits and exemptions.  Taxpayers can either file through the mail or electronically, but tax professionals say they prefer e-file, as it is more secure. Most tax refunds are received in 21 days if filed online. If filed through the mail, the wait time is generally four weeks.  Local News Headlines Festival of Flowers: Celebrating floral art, science at Springfield Museums MassDOT to propose new Chicopee Street bridge during meeting Tax filing deadline nears: Prepare now to avoid issues List of companies hiring during job fair held at Hampshire Mall WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less