Tax deadline is right around corner, Yuma
Deadline to file is monday
Have you filed your income taxes yet? If not, it’s time to get busy, because the deadline is Monday.
That’s right, readers. April 15 is almost here once again.
Filling out those income tax forms is a process that most people dread. One has to dig up documents and receipts, organize information and fill out forms.
Then, one has to pay any outstanding balances.
The federal April 15 deadline was set back in 1955. Congress gained the authority to collect income tax with the 16th Amendment, which was ratified by the states in 1913.
Whether you owe money or if the government owes you a return, it doesn’t change the fact that tax forms must be filed on April 15.
If you don’t, you might face a penalty from the Internal Revenue Service – and it can be pretty steep. Speaking of penalties, if you don’t pay your entire tax bill by April 15, you’ll face penalties too – even if you file for an extension.
An extension with the IRS only gives people more time to file their tax returns – not to pay the bill itself.
The good news is, there is still time to get your taxes done, especially if you choose to file electronically.
“Filing electronically reduces tax return errors as tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Most people qualify for electronic filing at no cost and, when they choose direct deposit, receive their refund within 21 days,” the IRS notes on its website.
However, if it seems like your taxes are too much to handle on your own, talk to an expert. There are a variety of professional tax assistant options both in Yuma and online, as well as phone assistance, available.
The IRS also offers a variety of FAQS and help options on its website at www.irs.gov/help, as does the Arizona Department of Revenue, at www.azdor.gov, or www.aztaxes.gov.
The last thing anyone wants to do is pay more than absolutely necessary, so file and pay your taxes online, and avoid the penalties. Don’t forget! Monday’s the day!
Unsigned editorials represent the viewpoint of this newspaper rather than an individual. Columns and letters to the editor represent the viewpoints of the persons writing them and do not necessarily represent the views of the Yuma Sun.