Top 10 Ways to Make your Last Minute Filing EZ

Tax day is less than 48 hours away, but do not worry if you have not filed your tax return yet. With e-filing and federal tax extensions you are not late. However, if you wait until after April 15 to take any action, then you will likely face penalties and fees. Follow these top 10 ways to make your last minute filing adventures a little more EZ.

1. Gather all your important documents

Make sure to gather all your important documents as soon as possible. No matter if you plan to e-file your tax returns or file them on your own you will need all necessary tax forms and financial documents.

2. Use last year’s tax return as a guide

I hope that you kept your tax return from last year. If so, you can use it as a guide since many items on it will still apply to this year's return.

3. Practice on paper

Even if you are going to file electronically, it is always a good idea to fill out your return on paper and work out all the bugs and issues before you attempt to file online.

4. Do not rush, you will make mistakes

If you try to rush and get your return prepared quickly then you are likely to make mistakes. Every year thousands of taxpayers make simple mistakes on their return that can result in fees or penalties. Be sure to always double and triple check your return before filing it.

5. Visit a local CPA or tax preparation office

In the last few days leading up tax day, CPAs and tax preparation offices are usually open long hours with extra people on hand to support the rush of last minute filers. Try calling to see if they have any appointments available or stop by right as they open.

6. Do not just take the EZ route

Many taxpayers who qualify to use IRS Form 1040EZ can very quickly and easily file their returns. However, using this form is not always the best option for all taxpayers.

7. Do not short-change yourself

In a rush to finish their taxes, many taxpayers overlook deductions or credits that they are eligible to take. Even if you do not itemize, there are plenty of tax breaks that can lower your tax liability and save you thousands of dollars. Do not miss this free money just because you are in a hurry.

8. Hold onto your Receipts

Just because you filed your return does not mean its okay to throw away your receipts. If you are ever audited, you will need all of these receipts. Make sure to keep them safely stored in a place where you can easily access them in the future.

9. File an extension

If there is no way you will be able to file your return before April 15, then you should file for an extension using IRS Form 4868. You can file the form online, over the phone, or through snail mail. As long as you file before 11:59 p.m. on April 15, you can avoid paying a late fee. However, if you think you are going to owe the IRS money then you should probably include a check with the form. Otherwise you may be hit with late-payment penalties.

10. Prepare for next year

Learn from your mistakes and be prepared next year. Rushing around at the last minute can be stressful, and you may even miss out on valuable credits or deducts that you overlooked in your panic to file your return. If you attend a local tax school over the next year you will be informed on all current tax laws and prepared for the next tax season.