Tax season deadline extended

The usual tax deadline is April 15, but because of the pandemic both last year’s and this year’s deadlines do not fall on the usual date. Last year’s deadline was midjuly, and the deadline to have filed this year has been extended to May 17.

The reasoning behind moving the deadline even though we have mostly all been adjusted to the times now is because the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) said this tax season will be a little more complex for everyone, so they extended the filing deadline by just a month.

If you missed out on any of the first two stimulus checks, you can file a Recovery Rebate Credit. This can be found on the Form 1040. Because the third stimulus check was not approved and distributed until 2021, the $1,400 cannot be claimed on the 2020 taxes. However, the initial stimulus for $1,200 and the second stimulus check for $600 can be claimed on the 2020 taxes if you did not receive them.

The Starkville Public Library offers the federal and the state of Mississippi’s tax forms, which also includes the 1040 form and instructions if you do intend to file on your own. If you need a tax form printed, call the library at 662-323-2766, and let them know which form or forms you need printed.

There are online tax services that will let you fill out forms and let you file with them. Turbotax is a service online that is free if you make under a certain amount that has fluctuated in years past. Credit Karma also allows for free filing, and it is a very painless process that is easy for young Millennials and older Gen Zers.

There are options in town for tax preparation, and it is best to do your research first on what you are looking for if you have not already filed. There are now a little less than two months to have all of your tax information in.