Tax Day 2012 is April 17th, but don’t let those extra two days to file lull you into a sense of complacency. The time to be preparing your taxes is now. Procrastination leads to last-minute rushing, and rushing leads to mistakes on your tax form. Whether you prepare your taxes by hand, use tax software [...]

Everyone is concerned about identity theft, and tax time can be of particular concern. Identity theft begins when someone gains access to your personal information – most often a Social Security number – and uses it for his or her own gain. The information may be used to get a job or to file for [...]

This tax season, you may want to do what millions of people do and hire a tax preparer to help you file your income tax return. To choose the best professional to help you with your specific tax needs, there are several criteria that you should consider. When making this important decision, be sure to take [...]

The 2011 fiscal year tax season will mark more than two decades of the extremely popular and highly successful IRS e-file program. This year, there are more options than ever for the average American to settle up with the IRS in a fast, free, safe and secure manner by using IRS e-file. Since e-filing means [...]

Most businesses and individuals with complicated tax returns require the help of a certified public accountant (CPA). A good CPA not only files your taxes, but also analyzes your financials and gives you advice on how to minimize your bottom line. Unfortunately, not all CPAs are good, nor are they all trustworthy. Being able to [...]

Many people attempt to “sneak one past” the IRS, but anyone who attempts to hide real estate, bank accounts or other assets that he owns is asking for trouble, plain and simply. The IRS has a number of tools and methods that facilitate the uncovering of an individual’s assets, and the risks involved in hiding [...]

Your accountant is not a mind reader, and unless you communicate your expectations of them, you may be surprised at what services they provide you. An accountant for a small business can do more than simply prepare a tax return – and if you do not discuss your individual needs you may find he or [...]

Numerous income tax filers can receive assistance when it comes to preparation and filing of their tax returns this year. These services are most often free and include free filing as well. Here is a rundown of the different services that are offered in order to help you determine if you qualify. Volunteer Income Tax [...]

Homeowners experiencing property losses due to certain imported drywall installed in their homes between the years 2001 and 2009 can receive assistance from the Internal Revenue Service.  The corrosive drywall is identified via a two step method published by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Department of Housing and Urban Development dated January 28, [...]

Part of being a diligent taxpayer includes keeping proper documentation. One rule to good organization is keeping up with your tax related documents as soon as you are done with them. There are some documents that need to be kept for years and other that can be tossed away as soon as you have finished [...]