For this first post, we’ll start with some basic information.
IRS.GOV – One of the best resources to look at for tax information is the official website of the IRS. Their website contains all the forms that you’ll need to fill out your taxes. It also tells you all of the basic rules/laws that you need to know about when filing your returns. It includes links where you can file your taxes electronically and outlines the options that you have for filing and paying your taxes at your convenience. Additonally you’ll find information about tax deductions and credits and just about anything you need to know about taxes.
Filing online – There are a number of ways in which you can file your taxes online. Check out all your efiling options by clicking here. Some people “fear” efiling, but if you have basic computers skills, there is nothing to be afraid of, beacuse the system tells you exactly what you need to do. (all you have to do is have all your paperwork organized and ready to go) My husband is no accountant by any means, and he was able to use the system to fill out our taxes last year. It only takes a little time, and the cost to file is no more than what you would pay an accountant. In fact, if your adjusted gross income was less than $54,000 then you can file online for free at freefile.
Tax Tips for 2008 -The IRS site lists a lot of important tips on tax credits & deducations which you may find helpful. This page also includes a link to info. on making sure that you get our “stimulus” payment.
Deadlines, extrensions, ect. – The best way to avoid the stress and worry over taxes is to file early. Plan a day right now to do your taxes, or call your accountant today to set up an appointment. The fastest and easiest way to file is to file electronically. (this is also the best way to ensure that your get your return/rebate in a timely manner.)
Here’s one of my unintentional tips – a few years ago I had it stuck in my head that tax day was March 15. I rushed to get them done before that deadline, only to realize I was a month off. But it got me into gear so much that I now pretend every year that the deadline is March 15.
Ahh, taxes ~ how I loathe thee. Actually it’s not too bad. My hubby was self-employed for a few years, so I got pretty dang meticulous about record keeping. Now that he’s been working for someone else again this year, it’s a breeze for us and our accountant (who happens to be my FIL) because I haven’t changed anything. I found using spreadsheets made record keeping SO much easier than before when I used to use one of those huge ledger books.
I enjoyed looking over your tax posts! We file ours by the end of January – already got, and spent, the refund!
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