Tips to Get You Through Tax Season
It’s tax season. The deadline to file your 2023 tax return is just around the corner! Did you forget?
It’s tax season. The deadline to file your 2023 tax return is just around the corner! Did you forget? Rushing to file before the April 15th deadline can leave you vulnerable to making mistakes on your taxes. Here is a checklist to help you avoid making mistakes that can delay or reduce your refund if one is owed to you.
- Check Identification Numbers – Make sure you check – and double-check – any identification numbers on your taxes. Usually, this will be your social security number. This includes your number, as well as anyone else on your return (spouse and dependents). Missing, incorrect or illegible numbers can delay or reduce your tax refund.
- Double-Check Your Calculations – If you are filing a paper return, double-check that you have correctly calculated the refund or balance due.
- Sign Your Form – Make sure to sign and date your return. If you are filing a joint return, both you and your spouse must sign it, even if only one of you had income. If you paid to have someone prepare your taxes, they must also sign it and provide their Preparer Tax Identification Number.
- Send Your Return to the Correct Address – If you are mailing a return, make sure you send it to the proper address. You can find the correct address at https://www.irs.gov/.
- File or Request an Extension of Time to File – You should either file a return or request an extension of time to file by the April 15th deadline.
- File Electronically – IRS efile is available to all taxpayers and many can file their individual tax returns electronically for free.
- Pay Electronically – If you owe the IRS after finishing your return, you can pay electronically. Paying electronically is a more convenient and safe method for paying taxes. You can do so either by authorizing an electronic funds withdrawal or use a credit or debit card.
- Visit IRS.gov – Forms, publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects are available at https://www.irs.gov/.
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