Last Minute Filing Tips
April 9, 2010 – Special Edition TT-2010-70
With the tax filing deadline close at hand, the IRS offers tips for those still working on their tax returns:
- File Electronically Consider filing electronically instead of using paper tax forms. If you file electronically and choose to have your tax refund deposited directly into your bank account, you will have your money in as few as 10 days.
- Check the Identification Numbers When filing a paper return carefully check the identification numbers – usually Social Security numbers – for each person listed. This includes you, your spouse, dependents and persons listed in relation to claims for the Child and Dependent Care Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit. Missing, incorrect or illegible Social Security numbers can delay or reduce a tax refund.
- Double-Check Your Figures If you are filing a paper return, you should double-check that you have correctly figured the refund or balance due.
- Check the Tax Tables If you are filing a paper return you should double-check that you have used the right figure from the tax table.
- Sign your form If filing a paper return, you must sign and date your return. Both spouses must sign a joint return, even if only one had income. Anyone paid to prepare a return must also sign it.
- Mailing a Payment People sending a payment should make the check out to "United States Treasury" and should enclose it with, but not attach it to the tax return or the Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, if used. The check should include the Social Security number of the person listed first on the return, daytime phone number, the tax year and the type of form filed.
- Electronic Payments Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and secure methods for paying taxes. You can authorize an electronic funds withdrawal, or use a credit or a debit card. For more information on electronic payment options, visit IRS.gov.
- Extension to File By the April due date, you should either file a return or request an extension of time to file (via Form 4868). Remember, the extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.
- IRS.gov You can check the status of your refund after you file your return by clicking on Where's My Refund?.
Both TaxACT Free Federal and Deluxe editions include Forms 1040-V and 4868 and will guide you through completion of the forms. Start your TaxACT return now.
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