Last-minute tax tips
You might be one of the responsible people. One of those taxpayers who already have everything in order and can just fill out the forms and print or e-file.
Or you might be a little more like me - frantically gathering all your tax information at the last minute and praying that you're not going to owe Uncle Sam any of your hard-earned cash.
Either way, it's not too late for tax tips. So here's a last-minute list, for the procrastinator in all of us, from the National Association of Tax Professionals:
* Use the IRS Web site, local libraries and post offices to find any forms you might not have gathered yet
* You can still call the IRS (hey, they're there to help, right?) at 800.829.1040
* Avoid one of the most common tax slip-ups by double-checking your social security number. Make sure it matches what the Social Security Administration has on file for you. And make sure your name is on the return correctly.
* Check numbers - not only the math but also where you filled in the blanks.
* Don't forget to attach all necessary forms. And don't forget to include a check if you owe money. Insert the check with your return, if you're filing on paper, but don't attach it. Make sure the check is written payable to the United States Treasury, that it has the correct tax year on it, that it has the type of form you're filing written on it and that you include your social security number and a daytime phone number on it.
* Returns must be postmarked by April 17, and that means you better make sure the postal clerk stamps your return in your presence. Don't just dump the return in a mailbox and assume it will go through on time.
* It's not too late to contact a tax preparer if you're overwhelmed.
* If there's no way you can get the return to the post office by April 17, apply for an automatic extension before that date by filing a Form 4868. If you ask for an extension, keep proof of that in your files. And remember that, even if you extend filing, you still have to pay at least 90 percent of what you owe by April 17, or risk penalties and interest.
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