Federal tax filing information and tips to help you avoid common errors

TAS Tax Tip: Federal tax filing information and tips to help you avoid common errors 

 

Tax Filing Resources 

The IRS will generally opens the filing season at the end of January. For updated dates view Filing Season Resources.  

 

ALERT: if you submit your tax return prior to theis opening date, it will be held until the filing season opens because the IRS computers need to be updated via with programming before any returns can begin processing.
But bBefore you file that your federal tax return here’s are some steps to follow and information to consider.tips to make your filing season a success. 

Prepare 

Both TAS and IRS have several resources to help you gather the documents you need andto prepare before you complete thatyour tax forms. Here’s some of our favorites: 

• Steps to Take Now to Get a Jump on Your TaxesGet ready to file your taxes 

• Online tools to help you get the information you need 

• Follow these tips to help prevent common issues and avoid refund delays 

• Check if you are eligible for military tax benefits 

• Claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit 

• Attend a Pre-Filing Season Awareness Event 

Review Tax Filing Options and File 

There are many options for filing a tax return. You should review these before making your final decision on how you will file. We recommend choosing an option where you can electronically file as it is faster and safer. It also offers the benefit of identifying basic errors up-front in the filing process as opposed to filing by paper where it can take several weeks before you know if there is something that needs fixing. 

Important note: When using e-file, you must sign your e-filed return electronically. You can sign using the Self-Select PIN or by using your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). If using the AGI option, see the IRS Alert about what special amount to use if your 2020 return has not been processed yet or if you previously used the IRS Non-Filers tool in 2021 to register for an advance Child Tax Credit payment or third Economic Impact Payment in 2021.you do not have a copy of your tax return you can get your AGI using your online account.  

We recommend reviewing the web pages below for more information about filing: 

• Filing Returns 

• File 

• Electronic Filing Options for Individuals 

• Free File 

• International Taxpayers 

• Direct File 

If you choose to file a paper tax return, know that some IRS addresses have changed, so check Where to File on IRS.gov for active addresses before filing or mailing payments.
 

Help with preparing and filing tax returns 

Tax laws and completing tax returns in certain circumstances can be complicated. Here are some resources should you need or want help: 

• Choosing a Tax Return Professional 

• TAS Tax Tip: Choosing the right tax return preparer for you 

• If you cannot afford the services of a Tax Professional, you may qualify to use the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs  

• The IRS also offers free tax help to members of the military and their families through the VITA program. 

More resources 

• IRS Forms, Instructions & Publications 

• Filing information for Individuals 

• Filing information for Businesses and Self-employed 

• Filing information for Charities and Nonprofits 

• Where’s My Refund? 

• Paying Your Taxes 

TAS News 

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) website is now available in Spanish: https://es.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov. You may access the English and Spanish versions using the drop down in the upper right-hand corner of the site. 

Get Up to Date Information on Filing Season with TAS on Social Media 

  

 

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