Practical Info You Need to Know About Filing Your Taxes in 2024
Filing your taxes is an essential part of managing your personal finances. Yet, the process can be complicated, confusing, and time-consuming, making it a daunting task for many individuals. It requires keen attention to detail, familiarity with tax laws and regulations, and keeping track of all relevant tax documents such as W-2 forms, 1099s, receipts, and other tax statements. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you file your taxes in 2024 with ease.
7 Tips for Filing Your Taxes in 2024
1. Determine Your Filing Status
Your filing status is an essential factor when filing your tax return. It determines your filing requirements, standard deduction, tax credit eligibility, and income tax rate. There are five filing statuses: single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, and qualifying widow(er) with independent child. Each status has different tax brackets and deduction limits, so choose the status that best suits your situation.
2. Collect Your Tax Documents
It is especially important to gather all the necessary documents before you start filing your taxes. These include your W-2, 1099 and any other income or tax statement. Additionally, if you claim any deductions, make sure that you have your receipts or other relevant documents to support each claim.
3. Understand Tax Deductions and Credits
Tax credits and deductions can reduce the amount you owe so you pay less on your taxes. Tax deductions are expenses that lower your taxable income and, thus, your tax liability. Whereas tax credits directly reduce the amount of taxes you owe and may even increase your refund. Some common tax deductions for average Americans include mortgage interest, student loan interest, and charitable donations. The earned income tax credit and the child tax credit, on the other hand, are two common tax credits.
4. Select the Right Tax Preparation Method
There are different ways for preparing and filing your taxes, including hiring a tax professional, using tax preparation software, and filing by paper. The method you should use to prepare and file your taxes should be based on your individual situation. However, for the best and most accurate result, we always recommend hiring a tax professional to ensure that everything is filed correctly. If you owe the IRS back taxes, we strongly advise consulting with a tax resolution expert in order to avoid wage garnishment, bank levy, or tax lien.
5. File Your Taxes on Time
To avoid any potential penalties or interest, make sure you file your taxes on time. The deadline for submitting taxes for 2023 is April 15, 2024. If you can’t file your taxes by the deadline, you can file an extension request to the IRS. Keep in mind, though, that an extension only applies to filing your tax return and does not offer you an extension to pay your taxes. If you have a balance due for 2022 and you submit an extension, you must pay what you owe along with the extension. Otherwise, you will face penalties for failing to pay.
6. Settle Any Taxes Owed
Ensure that you settle any taxes owed to the IRS within the designated period. You can utilize various payment methods such as online payment plans, direct debit, check, or money orders to fulfill your tax obligations. Nonpayment of owed taxes can lead to penalties, interest charges, and in a worst-case scenario, tax lien and wage garnishments.
7. Keep a Copy of Your Tax Return
There are various reasons why it’s necessary to keep records of your tax return. Having a copy of your returns can be useful when you’re applying for loans or financial assistance. It can also help you remember the tax credits and deductions you previously claimed on your tax return. It will make it easier for you to plan out for future tax years. In addition, keeping a record of your tax return can assist you to supply the required information should the IRS audit your return.
While filing taxes may seem daunting, it can be manageable if you follow a few key steps. These include knowing your filing status, collecting all the necessary documents, utilizing deductions and credits, submitting your return on time, settling any outstanding tax liabilities, and keeping a copy of your tax return. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and successful tax filing experience in 2024.
What to Do If You Owe Back Taxes
If you owe back taxes, taking action is the most critical thing you can do. If you don’t pay your tax debt, the IRS will keep adding penalties and interest to the amount you owe, which will only make your situation worse. You can contact a tax resolution specialist, like Peace of Mind Tax Help, to look over your case. We can help you through the process, so you don’t risk your financial future.
Our firm specializes in helping people with tax problems. We have CPAs and EAs who can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf. If you are looking for an experienced tax resolution specialist who knows the “ins and outs’ and knows how to navigate the IRS maze, reach out to our firm and we’ll schedule a no-obligation confidential consultation to explain your options to permanently resolve your tax problem.