Ten easy steps to tax-time bliss

  • Published
  • By Internal Revenue Service
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C --  Tax time can be a stressful, here are 10 easy steps to help make preparing taxes a little less stressful.

1. Gather your records ... now! It is never too early to start getting together any documents or forms you will need when filing your taxes: receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support an item of income or a deduction you are taking on your return. Also, be on the lookout for W-2s and 1099s coming soon from your employer.

2. Find your forms. Whether you file a 1040 or 1040 E-Z, you can download all Internal Revenue Service forms and publications on our Web site, www.irs.gov.

3. Do a little research. Check out Publication 17 on www.irs.gov. It is a comprehensive collection of information for taxpayers highlighting everything you need to know about filing your return. Review Pub 17 to ensure you are taking all credits and deductions you are eligible for.

4. Think ahead to how you will file. Will you prepare your return yourself or go to a preparer? Do you qualify to file at no cost using Free File on www.irs.gov? Are you eligible for free help at an IRS office or volunteer site? Will you purchase tax preparation software or file online? There are many things to consider, so give yourself time to weigh them all and find the option that best suits your needs.

5. Take your time. Rushing to get your return filed increases the chance you will make a mistake and not catch it.

6. Double check your return. Mistakes will slow down the processing of your return. In particular, make sure all the Social Security Numbers and math calculations are correct as these are the most common errors taxpayers make.

7. Consider e-file. When you file electronically, the computer will handle the math calculations for you and you will get your refund in about half the time it takes when you file a paper return.

8. Think about direct deposit. If you elect to have your refund directly deposited into your bank account, you will receive it faster than waiting for a check by mail.

9. Visit www.irs.gov often. The official IRS Web site is a great place to find everything you will need to file your tax return: forms, tips, frequently asked questions and updates on tax law changes.

10. Relax. There is no need to panic. If you run into a problem, remember the IRS is here to help. Try www.irs.gov or call the customer service number at 1-800-829-1040.

For more information, contact the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Tax Center at 722-0371.