10 Tips for Taxpayers Preparing to File Taxes

Tax time is an annual ritual, but it does not have to be frustrating one. A survey of IRS workers found that there are many ways taxpayers can save time and even money—andeven avoid the possibility of becoming a victim of identity theft. Drawing from their own experiencesin assisting taxpayers, IRS employees represented by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) offered these 10 tax time tips.So before you tackle the paperwork, read on to learn from the tax experts on how you can go through this tax season with greater ease.

  1. Always file your return on time,whether you are due a refund or owe taxes. Don’t have the funds to pay? File anyway and work out a payment plan. There are penalties for filing late and large penalties for not filing at all.Filing early can also help avoid the possibility of becoming a victim of identity theft.
  1. Gather all of your information and tax documents before starting your return. This includes all W-2s, 1099s and any supporting documentation for deductions.
  1. If you use a tax return preparer, choose an experienced professional with care. Question your preparer about any item. Get a copy of your return.
  1. Take advantage of free tools and services offered by the IRS, such as free file, e-file and e-pay. The IRS has multiple options for filing returns for free, getting payment plans set up, and paying your taxes online. Visit your nearest Taxpayer Assistance Center for free tax assistance.
  1. Be honest. Report all income accuratelyand do not omit information. Missing information could come with penalties and delay your return.
  1. Verifyeverything before mailing or filing the return. Double check the address and Social Security numbers, as well as names and dates of birth of all dependents.Preparers can make mistakes, too.And, sign and date your return. A signature is required to make the return valid. If it’s a joint return, both persons must sign the return.
  1. If you need more time, file for an extension. You can even do it online for free using the Free File link on IRS.gov. Remember, an extension to file is not an extension to pay taxes. You will have to pay interest on late taxes.
  1. Pay what you can if you owe. Pay as soon as you can to avoid interest. Contact the IRS, by phone or online, to set up an installment plan, such as a direct debit installment plan.
  1. Don’t hesitate to contact the IRS.IRS employees are there to help and provide answers to taxpayers needing assistance. Most contacts from taxpayers end with, “I don’t know why I was so afraid to call. This was easier than I thought.”Visit IRS.gov or call the toll-free number 1 (800) 829-1040. Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be the busiest days, and afternoons can afford a little easier time getting through. Taxpayers should note, too, that employees answering the phones are not responsible for long wait times.
  1. Keep copies of all documents and returnsfor at least three years in case you are asked to verify any information.

NTEU represents 150,000 federal employees in 31 government agencies.As the union for frontline IRS employees, NTEU advocates for adequate funding for the IRS. IRS funding has been slashed by severe budgets cuts endangering both the agency’s customer service and enforcement efforts. To learn more, visit