IRS Gives Seven Tips For Busy Taxpayers

HARTFORD — With the April 15 tax deadline just seven weeks away, here are seven tips for busy Connecticut taxpayers from the Internal Revenue Service.

l “E-file your tax return, it’s fast, accurate, and secure,” IRS Connecticut Spokeswoman Dianne Besunder said. “This year, more than half of all taxpayers are expected to use e-file. With e-file, you’ll get your refund about two weeks with direct deposit.” Millions of eligible taxpayers can use Free File — a free online service through IRS.gov that lets you prepare and file your tax return electronically.

l Taxpayers will find an expanded 1040 Central,  the one-stop shop for their tax return needs, on IRS.gov. The newly expanded page will connect taxpayers to basic income tax preparation needs such as key forms, answers to frequently asked questions, and critical links to key tax changes including tsunami relief contributions.

l  Simpler forms for more taxpayers. The income limits for using the Form 1040EZ and Form 1040A will increase from less than $50,000 to less than $100,000. The change in the threshold will mean 1.6 million more taxpayers are eligible to file the 1040EZ or 1040A.

l The popular “Where’s My Refund?” function on IRS.gov allows taxpayers to get an  answer. All taxpayers need is their Social Security number, filing status, and exact amount of their anticipated refund. Last year, it was used 20 million times.

l Some 19,000 Connecticut taxpayers who failed to file an income tax return for 2001 are missing out on more than $32 million in unclaimed refunds. To collect the money, they must file their 2001 returns with the IRS no later than April 15, 2005. When a return was not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with just a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. Half of those who could claim refunds would receive more than $586.

l  Many free IRS volunteer tax help sites are now open in Connecticut to assist taxpayers in preparing basic tax returns.  For the nearest volunteer site, contact the IRS toll-free number at 800-829-1040, available Monday through Friday, 7 am to 10 pm, and Saturdays, from 9 am to 5 pm, throughout the filing season. Connecticut taxpayers may also call the United Way INFOLINE at 2-1-1 for locations and hours of operation.

l “Don’t fall victim to one of the variety of tax scams that are out there now,” Ms Besunder said. “Schemes take numerous shapes, ranging from promises of special tax refunds to illegal ways of ‘untaxing’ yourself. Frequently, taxpayers are charged money for the incorrect advice by those promoting the scheme. If you think something may be unscrupulous, you can report suspected tax fraud to the IRS at 800-829-0433.”