Ready or not tax season is upon us. As your W-2s start showing up in the mailbox and commercials for tax preparation service begin bombarding you, make sure you are taking the right steps to get your biggest refund possible. Here are ten easy tax tips to help you get there.
1. Get Organized: Don’t wait until the last minute to get your taxes filed, and certainly don’t wait to get organized. Start gathering receipts and documents you’ll need to get the job done.
2. Lookout for W-2s:Tax documents including W-2s are probably showing up in your mailbox. Do yourself a favor and keep these all together in a safe place. When it comes time to do your taxes you’ll be glad you did.
3. Visit IRS.gov: In order to stay informed about key deadlines, news updates or scam alerts, make sure you’re visiting IRS.gov during tax season.
4. Get Free Help:Did you know the IRS gives out free tax software for qualified taxpayers? If you earn less than $57,000 a year you may qualify for this freebie. Checkout IRS.gov for more information on Free File.
5. Hire Someone You Trust: It doesn’t matter how much you pay a tax preparer– you’re still responsible for your tax return. Make sure the person you hire to help you is someone you trust to do the job with honesty and accuracy.
6. Try e-Filing: If you haven’t tried e-filing your taxes yet, make 2010 your year to do it. It’s a great way to save paper and save time.
7. Have Refund Directly Deposited: You won’t have to worry about your check getting lost in the mail if you opt for direct deposit. Plus you’ll get your tax refund much faster.
8. Don’t Rush: You’ve still got plenty of time. Don’t rush to send in your tax return. Make sure you take the time to review it completely so there are no mistakes.
9. Call for Help: Feeling overwhelmed with y our taxes? You can always call the IRS for help. You can reach their customer service department at 800-829-1040.
10. Make Copies: Always make copies of your tax return before sending them in. If you’re e-filing, make sure you print copies as well. That way you’ll always have a back-up in case you need it.
