Tax preparation season is in full swing. If you want to make the April 15 filing deadline, get started on your paperwork now to spare yourself stress down the line. Every year, the IRS faces questions from confused Americans regarding their tax documentation. Here are some of the most common.

FAQ About Tax Preparation

When is the earliest and latest you can file?

The IRS starts accepting electronic returns in January, and you can file until the night of April 15th. Don’t cut it too close, however. If something goes wrong and your return is delayed, due to a tech glitch, for example, you could face late fees. 

What can you expense?

Figuring out what you can expense, especially as a self-employed worker, is tricky and depends on your business. The bottom line is you have to prove the expense was for business purposes. Possibilities include your cellphone, office space, and car. 

Can you claim your child as a dependent? 

Your child must be younger than 19 or a student under the age of 24 at the end of this tax season’s calendar year to qualify as a dependent. If they are disabled and rely on you, they may be eligible under the “qualifying relative test,” regardless of their age. 

Should you file separately or jointly if married?

Some married couples keep their finances separate and therefore prefer to file separately. This can mean missing out on valuable exemptions and deductions, however. A tax preparation professional can advise you on how to minimize your financial burden.

How do you file taxes?

Those who make less than $66,000 a year can file for free via the IRS website. If your case is more complicated, a lawyer who deals with tax preparation can guide you. If you’re uncertain, it’s best to get help rather than risk an IRS audit and potential problems.

Whether it’s your first tax season or your fifteenth, the hassle of tax preparation can be a headache. Let the attorneys of Shelton Law Firm in Lucas County, IA, take the job off of your hands. With their thorough knowledge and more than 50 years of experience, they will make sure no deductibles or exemptions slip through the cracks. April 15 will be here soon, so schedule an appointment today by using the online form or calling (641) 774­-5956.