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It’s hard enough facing all
the challenges that come with becoming a single parent. Filing your taxes does
not have to be one of them.
Whatever your situation, you
may now find yourself filing taxes for the first time or filing under a
different status. You may not know what questions to ask or what is important
for filing your tax return correctly.
Here are some simple steps
to help point you in the right direction:
Step 1:
Gather up last year’s tax records. They can be a wonderful guide for finding
what information is the same and what has changed. To request free transcripts,
call 1-800-908-9946 toll free and follow the prompts in the
recorded message. You should receive your transcript in one to two weeks. You
may also complete
IRS Form 4506T,
Request for Transcript of Tax Return,
and mail it to the address listed in the instructions. Most requests are
processed within 30 days, when requested by mail. You can get a copy of Form
4506T by visiting IRS.gov.
Step 2:
Organize important documents that will be needed for this year’s taxes. This
can include:
§
proof of
identification
§
Social
Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents or a Social Security number
verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration, or Individual
Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the IRS
§
birth dates
for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return
§
current year’s
tax package, available online or at your IRS office
§
Income
statements such as, Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-MISC from all employers
§
interest and
dividend statements from banks, credit unions, or brokerage company (Forms 1099)
§
a copy of last
year’s federal and state returns, if available
§
bank routing
and account numbers for direct deposit
§
total amount
paid for a daycare provider and the daycare provider's tax identifying number
(the provider's Social Security number or the provider's business Employer
Identification Number) and
§
divorce, trust
or estate documents, if applicable
Step 3:
Either choose a
local preparer to help you file or go online and file
yourself. Most online filing software is easy to use and asks you all the
right questions, including questions about life changes. All you have to do is
supply the answers.
Step 4:
If you have any questions or need assistance with your personal tax questions,
go to IRS.gov, call 800-829-1040 or visit an
IRS office for free tax help.
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