Tax answers can be found in many ways
Tax-return filings surge over Presidents Day weekend, with the IRS saying it receives more phone calls on the day after Presidents Day than on any other day of the year. That can mean long waits for filers trying to get through on the phone.
So where should you turn if you have a question?
Online
Getting someone on the phone might be a challenge, but the IRS.gov website has answers to most tax questions. The site also can direct you to outside tax help, such as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. It provides free tax help to people with incomes under $54,000, those with disabilities, and those who require in-person assistance because of language issues. There’s also the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program, which provides free help to all taxpayers, specializing in those 60 or older.
Taxpayers whose income is $66,000 or less can use IRS Free File — also accessible on the main site — to access free tax-preparation software.
Software
Filing online is the most accurate, safest and easiest way to file, according to the IRS.
Numerous free and paid tax software programs will walk you through common tax scenarios. Some brands, such as TurboTax, offer add-on perks for help. TurboTax Live, for example, allows you to ask for immediate help from an expert online, and you can even get your tax return reviewed, signed and filed by an experience certified public accountant or enrolled agent.
Professional
If you decided you want to call in a pro, make sure you choose wisely.
Although the majority of tax professionals provide honest, quality service, the IRS warns of dishonest preparers who set up shop to commit refund fraud, identity fraud and other scams. The IRS website has a number of tips on how to choose a tax return preparer wisely. But one easy place to start is to make sure the preparer has an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number, known as a PTIN, which is required by law. In general, avoid preparers who boast about getting you the biggest return, aren’t available for questions or want to be paid based on a percentage of a refund.
Remember that no matter who prepares a federal tax return, the taxpayer, by signing it, becomes legally responsible for its accuracy.