If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, here are some last minute tips to help you before Tax Day:
- Watch for errors: Even though you don’t have a lot of time left, it is really important to take your time and stay organized when filing taxes. Mistakes can end up getting your tax files flagged for review, so do it right the first time. Gather your income and deduction information before you sit down, and make sure your social security number is correct. You’d be surprised how many people make the simple mistake of putting the wrong social security number.
- If possible, file by the April 18 deadline: It’s important to submit your return by Tax Day - you can file by snail mail or online, but it must be time-stamped by 11:59 pm. If you can’t get all of your paperwork together by the deadline, you can ask for an extension. This will allow you an extra 6 months to file your paperwork. However, even if you do get the extension, you still need to pay any money you owe by April 18th.