Tax filing season has opened, and the Internal Revenue Service has ramped up its operations. The governmental agency expects to file 128.7 million individual tax returns this year.
In anticipation of the glut of paperwork, they’ve increased the number of people staffing their in-person centers and toll-free information line. More people working for the IRS means your tax return process could be quicker and more seamless.
The IRS stated that those who file quickly and don’t owe taxes could receive tax returns in as little as 21 days with a few exceptions, including those with the Earned Income Tax Credit.
If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive discounts and financial resources
Over 50? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on things like travel, meal deliveries, eyeglasses, prescriptions that aren’t covered by insurance and more.
How to become a member today:
- Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
- Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
- Start enjoying your discounts and perks!
Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (Do not skip this step!) Doing so will allow you to take up 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.
Double-check everything
The quickest way to receive your tax return fast is to have everything you need to file and fill out the form correctly. An incorrect social security number or wrong deduction or address can impact your tax return.
Double-check the W-2 forms to ensure that the name, address, and social security number used in the form are correct. And don’t be afraid to break out a calculator. Go over your tax return slowly to catch any mathematical mistakes you may have made.
Get your paperwork in order
Before you file that tax return, visit the IRS’s Get Ready to File checklist to compare what documents you have or need to file. You can also compare the previous year’s documents used to prepare for filing this year.
If receiving monies from retirement funds, pensions, IRAs, insurance contracts, annuities, etc., you’ll need to use a 1099-R. If you won money from gambling, you’ll have to fill out a W-2G. Various types of investments require using a specific form.
The IRS has free forms and instructions that you can fill out online or download and fill out.
Get help
The IRS offers free tax help to those who earn $64,000 or less, are 60 or older, have a disability, or need language help. The sooner you visit one of the IRS’s Taxpayer Assistance Centers and file, the faster you’ll get your tax returns.
File electronically with direct deposit
E-filing ensures that not only will the IRS get the tax return immediately, but they’ll turn around and process it quickly too. Jump on the trend, e-file, and get your return fast. If you’ve never filed your taxes electronically, it’s easy.
Visit the IRS website and create an account. Have your bank’s routing and account numbers on hand, and opt for the direct deposit option when creating your account. Your tax return will then be deposited directly into your checking or savings account.
If you are working with a CPA or tax preparer, ask them if you can e-file before working on this year’s tax returns. Most tax professionals will e-file the tax return for you.
File early
How do you get your taxes ahead of that crowd of people? File as soon as you can.
Last year’s average tax return was $2,753. Getting a tax return in that amount (or near it) this year would be a nice addition to your savings account. Once you’ve filed, you can use the IRS “Where’s My Refund” tool to track the status of your refund.
Trending Stories
Bottom line
On Monday, the IRS stated it was the official start of tax season, and they’re now happily accepting tax returns. The IRS has increased its staff to help with the work involved in filing a high amount of returns.
There’s always a chance of a “traffic jam” of paperwork that can hold up a tax return, so be sure to file as soon as you can before the April 15 deadline to get your refund faster and get ahead financially.
Lucrative, Flat-Rate Cash Rewards
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
Current Offer
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
Benefits
- Low spend threshold for its welcome offer — $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months
- Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
- Can redeem rewards at an ATM for literal cash
Drawbacks
- Foreign transaction fee of 3%
- No bonus categories
- Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
- Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
- Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 19.74%, 24.74%, or 29.74% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
- $0 annual fee.
- No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
- Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
Subscribe Today
Want extra-cash moves to come right to you?
Stop browsing endlessly. Get proven ways to earn pocket money, help cover rent, and crush your debt — sent to your inbox daily.
Author Details