Last Minute Filing Tips from the IRS

You have until Monday to get your taxes finished thanks to Emancipation Day which is celebrated in the District of Columbia on April 15th. So here are some tips that the IRS gave out for last minute preparation:

1. File Electronically - In 2010 70% of all individual taxpayers used IRS e-file to file their taxes.


2. Check the Identification Numbers - double check Social Security Numbers for each person listed


3. Double-Check Your Figures - If you are filing a paper return (not e-filing), you should double check that you have correctly figured the refund or balance due.


4. Check the Tax Table - If you are filing using the Free File Fillable Forms or a paper return, double check thatyou have used the right figure from the tax table.


5. Sign your Form - If filing a joint return, both spouses must sign


6. Mailing Your Return - if not E-filing, you can find where to mail your return to at http://www.irs.gov/. Click the Individual tab and the "Where to File" link under IRS Resources on the left side.


7. Mailing a Payment - People sending a payment should make the check payable to "United States Treasury" and should enclose it with, but not attach it to the tax return or the Form 1040V, Payment Voucher, if used. The check should include the Social Security number of the person listed first on the return, daytime phone number, the tax year and the type of form filed.


8. Electronic Payments - Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and secure methods for paying taxes. You can authorize an electronic funds withdrawal, or use a credit or a debit card. Remember, the extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.


9. Extension to File - By the April 18th due date, you should either file a return or request an extension of time to file. Remember, the extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.


10. IRS.gov - Forms, publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects are available at http://www.irs.gov/.

Tips from IRS.gov:http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=108651,00.html