If you choose to prepare your own tax return, you can do it manually or on a PC. You could also elect to pay a tax professional to prepare your return. If you qualify, you can have your tax return prepared free by using IRS Free File. Except when you do your forms manually with paper and pencil, you can elect to file electronically and receive the benefits of e-file.
If You Prepare Your Return Manually
Use the checklist below to help you through the manual filing process.
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Collect all records, including W-2s, 1099s, receipts, etc. |
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Obtain forms and schedules online from the public library or IRS. |
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Fill in your return following the directions in the appropriate booklet. |
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Check your return for accuracy. |
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Sign and date your return. |
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Attach all required forms. |
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Include the payment voucher (Form 1040-V) with any required payment. |
If You Prepare Your Return on a Computer
If you own or plan to purchase tax preparation software, make sure it is up to date. Remember, tax laws change every year, and you are responsible for the accuracy of your return.
Completing your return on a PC or Mac is not difficult. You collect information in the same way you would if you were filing manually. Then, using the tax software, you answer the questions and provide the requested information.When you’ve entered all required information, the software will complete the necessary forms, and print a copy for your records. You can either send a copy to the IRS via mail or transmit your return electronically. If you e-file, you can make your payment with a credit card or have the IRS electronically deduct your payment from your bank account.
If a Tax Professional Does Your Return
If you choose a Tax Professional to prepare your return, you may choose to e-file or mail paper forms. Keep in mind that there are fees associated with tax preparation and that some Tax Preparers charge an additional fee to e-file.
More than 57 million returns were e-filed by Tax Professionals last year.* To find a Tax Professional offering e-file in you area, use the Authorized IRS e-file Provider Locator Service on the IRS site.
If You Free File
Many taxpayers are eligible for Free File. Free File is an online tax preparation and electronic filing service arranged by the IRS. If you meet the requirements, an authorized provider will prepare and e-file your return…free. Check the Free File homepage at the IRS website.
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Collect all records, including last year’s return, W-2s, 1099s, receipts, etc. |
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Be sure your tax preparation software is up to date and review the instructions. |
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Answer the questions from the tax preparation software and complete the preparation of your return. |
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Check your return for accuracy. |
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Print copies of your return. |
| To Mail Your Return… |
To e-file Your Return |
- Sign and date your return.
- Attach all required forms.
- Include the payment voucher (Form 1040-V) with any required payment.
- Use the envelope provided by the IRS to send your forms to the appropriate IRS processing center. Certified mail is not required, but will provide you with proof that you submitted your return on time.
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- Decide how you want to get your refund or make a payment, e.g., electronically with a credit card or Electronic Funds Withdrawal, or mail payment with a voucher (Form 1040-V).
- Decide how you’ll sign your return, i.e., PIN number or mail.
- Identify an e-file transmitter on the IRS website; transmit.
- Save & file acknowledgement that IRS received your return.
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*Source: http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=118450,00.html
