Tax Day can be stressful, especially if you have to file your return on paper. But by following a few simple guidelines you can significantly reduce the stress and make it easier for you.
First, ensure that you have all of the forms and documents needed for filing. This includes your tax return (Form 1040 or 1040-SR), payment information, and any additional paperwork you might require.
Accessible Forms
The purpose of accessible forms is to simplify the reading and understanding process for people with disabilities and to be compatible with assistive technology such as screen reading software or computers.
Forms should include labeled form fields and buttons that appear on-screen to inform screen readers and keyboard-only users exactly which information they are viewing – this is especially relevant when the form contains complex content such as charts or tables.
The IRS has an Alternative Media Center that provides tax-related information in different formats. These formats can be accessed with assistive technology such as screen reading software or refreshable Braille displays. Taxpayers may request receiving notices in Braille, large print, audio or electronic format; this option has recently become available to all taxpayers and since launching Form 9000 more than 2,300 requests have been processed; they expect this number to continue increasing as more taxpayers learn of these services.
What to File
There are many options when it comes to filing your tax documents. While you could visit an IRS office directly or use mail/private delivery service as the most efficient means of sending returns with payment attached (check or other means), this method also offers greater privacy than public filing locations.
To locate an appropriate tax filing location, the IRS offers its Where to File page as a starting point. Here you`ll find addresses based on both your state and type of return you`re filing, along with links that provide efficient ways of doing so.
It is important to take into account the weight and size of your documents, as well as shipping costs. These factors will impact both how much money is due from you as a tax return as well as the speed at which your documents are processed.
E-Filing
Online filing of your income tax returns is convenient, secure and cost-effective. E-filing gives taxpayers advantages not available when filing by mail such as error-reducing automatic calculators; instant confirmation of successful filing; faster refund processing times and direct deposit options.
Filing taxes online or with software programs is often possible, although tax preparers may e-file for you for some returns due to various reasons. However, some returns cannot be filed electronically.
If you want to verify that your return was filed correctly, it is best to submit a paper version.
Many tax filing software programs ask users to provide their driver`s license or state identification number as an extra security measure, in order to reduce identity fraud and speed up returns faster while decreasing risks associated with identity theft. This step, while voluntary, could speed up returns and reduce risks associated with identity theft.
E-Paying
It`s easy to pay your taxes online and you can save time by not having to go to the post office. You also ensure that the payments are made on time. You can access a well-designed online payment portal from your computer or mobile device. It allows you to make one-time or automatic payments. You can make single payments or set an auto-pay schedule so your worries about payments won`t return in future years.
You have a number of options for paying your taxes, all with their own advantages. Use our interactive toolbox for tax payments to find out what works best for you. You can also compare your situation with other taxpayers and see what products and services they are using, as well as if they have recommitted to paying their bills in a timely manner.