5 Tax Tips You Need to Know Before Filing

Most people have important individual income tax tips that are important to know before you begin filing.

The amount of your income and benefits for the year can change a lot. Budgeting and tracking how much tax you’ll likely owe can help manage your taxes, and get this done and paid quickly.

Luckily for you, you came to the right place. Below are a few tax tips you need to know before filing.

1. Gather All of Your Tax Documents

Gathering your tax documents includes W-2 forms from your employer, 1099 forms from any other income sources, and receipts for any deductions or credits you plan to claim. Organizing your tax documents before you file can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Below are a few tips to help you get organized:

Make a List of All of Your Deductions and Credits

This will help you make sure you don’t miss any tax breaks you’re entitled to.

Have Your Login Information and Password Handy

If you’re using software when filing taxes, it’s very helpful to have your tax documents ready. An example of this is when you’re going to file 1096 online.

2. Decide Whether Your Parents Can Claim You as a Dependent

If you’re under the age of 24 and attending school full-time, then your parents can claim you as a dependent on their taxes. However, if you’re 24 or older and not attending school, then you can’t be claimed as a dependent.

Also, if you’re providing more than half of your own financial support, then you can’t be claimed as a dependent. So, if you’re not sure whether your parents can claim you as a dependent, be sure to check with the IRS or a tax expert.

3. Consider Relevant Tax Deductions and Credits

There are many deductions and credits available to taxpayers, but not all of them will be relevant to your particular tax situation.

When you’re preparing your taxes, be sure to consider all of the deductions and credits that you may be eligible for, and choose the ones that will save you the most money.

4. Don’t Forget About Your Gig Economy Income

As the end of the year approaches, taxpayers who participate in the gig economy may be scrambling to get their affairs in order. So be sure to keep good records of your income and expenses before the tax season ends.

5. File Electronically

One of the best tax tips you can follow is to file your taxes electronically. This is the most accurate way to file, and it also allows you to get your refund faster. There are many tax software programs available that make filing electronically easy and affordable.

You can even file for free if you have a simple tax return.

Learn More About Tax Tips Today

When it comes to taxes, it’s important to be prepared and armed with the right information so that filing your taxes won’t be a headache. These tax tips will help you get organized and avoid any surprises come tax time.

So get started early, do your research, and talk to a professional if you have any questions.

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