Think ahead, learn the basics of filing your taxes or learn how to seek professional tax advice.
It’s the first week of April. It seems like everyone around you is further along the tax process than you are, and stress is building. Does this taxing scenario sound familiar? If so, it might be time to rethink your tax filing strategies. By following this simple checklist, you can avoid tax time stress and let April 15 pass by as just another day.
Get organized early - By the last week in February you should begin organizing all the necessary information for filing your taxes. Sort your paperwork into three folders: one for items related to income, one for items related to potential deductions, and one for credits you expect to claim.1 If you are unsure of what documents you need, contact a tax filing service and ask for an information pamphlet to ease your concerns.
Make a decision - Are you going to get help from a tax service or are you going to tackle the assignment on your own? Companies like H&R Block have software to assist you and agents who can walk you through the filing process. If you choose to do it on your own, make sure you give yourself ample work space for all the papers you may have laying around.
Get smart - There are many ways to save money when filing your taxes, even without cutting back on your coffee intake. Almost any expense incurred for your business can be deducted from your income. Take a walk around the office and double check for anything that you can save money on. If you are self-employed, you may be able to deduct 60% of health insurance that you paid for.2 Finally, avoid the possibility of being audited by including proof of any large deductions. As a precaution, attach a copy of the interest statement, receipt, or anything else that might save the IRS some time or money.
After managing your taxes in a smart, responsible way, tax day will seem like a walk in the park.
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