The West Virginia Morning Show With Hans and Rona

Last Minute Tax Tips From The IRS

Even with some extra time, the tax deadline is fast approaching. Thanks to a holiday in the District of Columbia, all taxpayers have until April 17th to get Form 1040 into the IRS. For people who find taxes a little too taxing, IRS has a program that can help. It’s called Free File. You can use free software to do your taxes and e-file for free. Get started at IRS.gov/freefile. The software does the hard work – doing the math and helping you find the tax breaks you’re due. There is a free option for everyone. People who make $57,000 or less, which includes most Americans, can use the Free File software. People who make more can use Free File Fillable Forms, an electronic version of IRS paper forms. If you don’t think you can meet the April 17th deadline, you can request an extension. But remember, this is an extension to file your return, not to pay. If you think you owe, send a payment with your extension request. The IRS also offers some tips that may help:

• Don’t wait until the last minute; you’re prone to make mistakes.

• Use IRS.gov for answers to your questions or to track your refund.

• Use Free File, there’s a free option for everyone.

• Don’t panic if you can’t pay; you can arrange for a payment agreement at IRS.gov.

• If you can’t make the April 17th deadline, use Free File to request an extension and make a payment if needed.

Meanwhile, Jackson Hewitt is reminding last minute filers of the most common mistakes to avoid when filing their tax returns: