As the new year progresses, there is one thing that will be on all of our to-do lists: filing our taxes. It’s something that no one necessarily likes to do, but it’s something we all have to do. So, you might as well get it out of the way as soon as possible.
Once you have gathered all of your W-2s (if you’ve had more than one job in 2011, you’ll have multiple), it’s time to decide how exactly you will file your taxes.
You can do them yourself with a pen and paper, which according to the IRS, only eight percent of taxpayers choose to do. You can use downloadable or online tax software such as TurboTax or H&R Block’s version. You could choose to go in person to a tax preparation office, or maybe you have your own tax accountant.
Believe it or not, there are also free tax preparation services. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program are overseen by the IRS. You can also check at your local universities, law schools, libraries and legal service organizations that offer free tax help.
However you decide to figure out if you’re getting back money from the government or if you actually owe some, this year you have until April 18 to file.
Read more on how to file your taxes on the cheap at Forbes.com
About Nicolle Morales Kern