An official website of the United States Government (NON-Prod - Development Environment)The tax return filing season is here. Do you need help with filing information and options? Here are some useful tips from the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
Each year, most people who work are required to file a federal income tax return. If you must file, you have two options:
E-filing is generally considered safer, faster, and more convenient, but some people can’t e-file and must mail their tax returns to the IRS. You can decide which filing method is right for you.
Most IRS Forms, Instructions, Publications and Schedules can be found online at IRS.gov. Sometimes copies can also be found at your local library. However, be aware that most forms are no longer available in the local IRS walk-in offices, so you’ll need to either order them or print them yourself from IRS.gov pages.
Don’t forget to sign your tax return before mailing it to the IRS!
If you do file a paper tax return, consider sending it by certified mail, with a return receipt. This will be your proof of the date you mailed your tax return and when the IRS received it. You may also use certain private delivery services designated by the IRS.
Four electronic filing options for individual taxpayers are listed below.
No matter how you choose to file, know that there are major tax law changes that are likely to affect you this year. Don’t fret though, as our Tax Reform Changes website explains what is changing and what is not. Visit our website to get help before or after filing season.
The IRS also changed the Form 1040 that will be used to file this year. Before you file, check out our article – New 2018 Form 1040 Changes and Helpful Hints for Completion.
