Simply Junior

There have been a lot of changes in the tax preparation and tax filing field over the past couple of decades. Today there are more options than ever when you need to fulfill your yearly obligation to the IRS. Some are free, some are not; some people do it themselves, others go to professionals. One thing does not change though, no matter which option you choose: you are liable for the accuracy of your report, no matter what.

In other words, if you go to someone for tax advice and/or assistance with filing your taxes, and that person is wrong, you are the one who will pay the penalty. The fact that they signed your return is irrelevant at this point. For this reason, many people opt to go the online route, because today’s software does a fine job when it comes to navigating people through their returns.

You will obviously need a computer with an Internet connection, a tax filing program (software or e-file), applicable financial documents, and a couple hours. Some people master it faster than others, but it definitely is something that anyone can do if they set their minds to it.

Filing your taxes online has several advantages. It is more widespread than you think: even if you go to a professional, they are themselves more likely to use exactly that to file your return for you. Secondly, it is convenient: you do not have to bring anything to anyone, and you can get the job done in the comfort of your home. Finally, it is fast: not only is your information sent immediately, but your refund is also more likely to come quicker.

Now, when going through the process, one of the most important documents you will need is the W-2 form. Before you start filling anything, read the back and make sure you understand exactly what everything means. This is not one of those areas where mistakes have only minor consequences. Another practical suggestion is to print out everything you have filed, so you can have hard copies for your records. Remember that if you want to be on the safe side, you will want to keep them for seven years. Also, when filing online, you will receive a confirmation that the IRS has received your information; print that out as well.

Tax filing programs have now come to the point where they can analyze the information that you input and based on that information, pop-ups appear and suggest deductions that you may qualify for. Those programs are updated every year to take into account every change in tax law. This is one of the major perks of choosing that option.

Those looking for free options will be happy to learn that there are plenty of choices for them too. Most of this information will be on the IRS website, where they will find several options they have to file their taxes for free. Depending on your personal financial circumstances, you will likely find one that applies to you. For example, for those who qualify, there may be the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program or VITA, and also the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program or TCE. Both of these services are free. Similarly, military personnel who need help filing their taxes can turn to the Armed Forces Tax Council or AFTC for free assistance. Active military member or their family are eligible.

In the end, the online option for filing taxes can help get rid of the stress that comes with potentially making a mistake on your return: the programs have error checkers and calculators built to help you minimize this possibility. Plus, there are many free options for those people who are cash-strapped. It is no wonder then that every year this method gains more and more popularity.

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Last year, millions of Americans took advantage of online tax filing services. In fact, the Internal Revenue Service offers links to income tax preparation services on their website, and many of these services offer free federal income tax filing for people who meet certain income qualifications.

Most online tax filing sites function similarly. First, you must establish an account by setting up a user name, password, and providing an email address. An email confirmation will be sent automatically, and including a secure link to the site for confirmation of your identity.

Once your identity has been verified, you can begin entering information. These sites are generally divided into several sections. First, basic information such as your name, address, filing status, and name of dependents must be provided. The next section requires entry of information from your W-2s, and then you will be asked questions to determine what, if any, deductions you may have in order to determine your taxable income. Finally, the program calculates the amount of your income tax, and depending on your status, the amount you owe or your refund.

Once all the information has been entered, you can file electronically. Many sites provide free federal tax preparation and filing, but charge for the state tax preparation and filing service. You must pay any fees prior to the actual filing using a either a credit or debit card. You will also be asked how your refund should be processed. Generally, you can choose to have a check sent or for the money to be deposited into your checking or savings account.

If you have not previously filed electronically, you must either sign electronically (you need to have the previous year’s return to do this), or opt to sign a paper form, which will be mailed to you after you have filed.

After you have paid, you will have an opportunity to print out your return for review prior to filing. If everything looks okay, your return can be filed. Click the appropriate button, and then wait for verification that the transaction was processed successfully. You should also receive email confirmation of this transaction.

Anyone who files a 1040EZ or 1040 can file online with most of the sites. If your return is more complex, the selection is more limited, and it may be advisable to use a tax accountant. However, most of these sites can handle 1099s and business deductions.

Some tax software vendors offer free online tax preparation depending on your income level. A list of sites is available on the IRS web site indicating the income level at which they offer the free filing service. Be aware, though, that the free filing only pertains to your federal tax return, not the state.

Once you have used a tax service, your information is stored for the next tax-filing year. Write down your user name and password on the hard copy of your tax form, also noting the site’s address. This will ensure that, next year, you will be able to log in and proceed without having to enter any preliminary information.