Business & Finance
Tips for faster, easier filing
(BPT) - Spring can inspire a renewed sense of confidence and optimism in do-it-yourself activities. For
nearly 40 percent of Americans, this includes preparing and e-filing their own income tax return.-Like most
things DIY, following a few simple strategies can save you valuable time and money at tax time.
"First, gather all your tax forms and information, especially if you want to start and file your return in one
fell swoop," says-TaxACT Spokesperson Jessi Dolmage. "In addition to tax forms like W-2s, 1099s and
1098s, remember documentation related to income, investments and any expenses you think could be deductible. It's also a good idea to have a copy of last year's return for comparison."
When choosing your digital tax solution, caref ully review the tax forms and situations covered. Although
one brand may include the tax forms for homeowners and self-employed in its free or deluxe product,
another may require you to upgrade to a pricey version for the same forms.-Also take note of any fees for
state returns.
If you're new to digital tax filing or switching brands, take a couple for a test drive. Paid solutions typically
don't require payment until you file and some even allow you to try without creating an account. As part of
your test drive, review the help resources. Most brands offer email, phone and chat but the tax and
technical help in the program should be robust enough to answer most questions on the spot. Are the
answers easy to find and easy to understand?
Regardless of the brand or product, take advantage of the interview and answer questions in the order
they're asked. "The IRS doesn't tell you if you forgot to claim a refundable credit," says Dolmage, "but
solutions like TaxACT will. The interview covers hundreds of credits and deductions in an efficient manner
while checking your return for errors."
Once you've completed the interview and you are ready to file,-print and review your return for these
common mistakes:
Incorrect social security numbers.
Misspelled names. Be sure the names on your return appear exactly as they do on Social Security cards.
April 2014
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