Tax day was a few months ago, but if you haven’t filed a return it is in your best interest to do so as soon as possible. Even if you filed an extension with the IRS, or cannot afford to make any payment, you still need to file a federal tax return. But do not be worried, filing a past due return is not as difficult as you may think.
Gather All Financial Information
Before you even think about sitting down to prepare a tax return, first make sure to gather all of your financial information for the years you plan to file a return for. This will help you easily identify all income, deductions, and credits to include in your return. Some of the document you will need include:
- A copy of last years tax returns.
- IRS Form W-2 from all employers.
- IRS Form 1099 for all self employed individuals, and anyone with profit from capital gains or interest and dividends.
- Social Security numbers for dependents.
- A copy of the last tax return filed.
Prepare and File all Necessary Forms
You can download all necessary forms from IRS.gov, just search for the forms you need, print them out, and follow the attached instructions to complete them. Make sure to sign and date your tax return, then send it to the address at the end of the instructions.
Note: if you have received a notice from the IRS, then make sure you mail your return to the address on your notice. Always double check this address, as it may be different from where you usually send your returns.
Make a Payment
If you cannot afford to make a payment to the IRS then do not let it stop you from at least filing a return. If you can pay, the IRS accepts the following payment methods: credit card, electronic funds transfer, check, money order, cashier’s check, or cash.
To make a payment by credit card, you can call or visit the website of the following approved vendors.
- Official Payments Corporation – 1-800-2PAYTAX (1-800-272-9829).
- Link2Gov – 1-888-PAY1040 (1-888-729-1040).
To make a payment by check, money order, or cashier’s check, you should:
- Make your payment payable to ”United States Treasury”
- Include your SSN or EIN, tax period, and information on the attached forms
- Mail to the address listed at the end of your instructions
Cash payments can only be made in person at a local IRS Office. To find the closest IRS office to your home visit IRS.gov.