The income tax filing season has begun and important tax documents should be arriving in your mailbox. Even though your return is not due until April,you can make tax time easier on yourself with an early start. Here are some tips from the Internal Revenue Service to ensure a smooth tax-filing process.
1. Gather your records Round up any documents you’ll need when filing your taxes: receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support income or deductions you’re claiming on your return.
2. Be on the lookout W-2s and 1099s will be coming soon; you’ll need these to file your tax return.
3. Have a question? Use the Interactive Tax Assistant available on the IRS website to find answers to your tax questions about credits, deductions, general filing questions and more.
4. Consider all filing options There are many options for filing your tax return. You can prepare it yourself or go to a tax preparer. Give yourself time to weigh all the options and find the one that best suits your needs.
5. Consider direct deposit If you elect to have your refund directly deposited into your bank account, you’ll receive it faster than a paper check in the mail.
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