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It's Tax Season
 Writerforhirealways
It is that time of year again! Millions of people will be filing tax returns before the April 17, 2012 deadline. In the past, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) used to mail the IRS form for taxes to residences and businesses. Within the last few years, the IRS decided to stop mailing out forms. This decision was prompted due to the increase in the number of Americans filing electronic returns. In March 2011, the IRS received 60.5 million tax returns. That total consisted of 53.9 million electronic (e-filed) returns and 6.7 million paper returns. By not mailing out the IRS form, the agency states this saves taxpayers money. In 2010, it was reported that the IRS saved $10 million annually on printing and postage costs.
The Taxpayer IRS Form is available on the Internet, at Taxpayer Assistance Centers, local IRS offices, some libraries and post offices, or in community centers. On the IRS website, www.irs.gov/formspubs, there are approximately 2,051 electronic and print media forms and publications available. The forms can be printed or downloaded, or the individual can request the form be mailed to an address. All forms are free of cost and can be requested in as many quantities as needed. For individuals who still feel more comfortable using paper forms, the instructions for completing the form is still included together with the form when downloaded from the IRS website or requested by mail.
The benefits of electronic filing include faster tax return processing and greater accuracy. Electronic filers can receive a tax return deposited in their bank account within one to two weeks after processing or receive a check in the mail. Paper filers can expect a check within six weeks after their tax return has been processed.
No matter which route is taken to complete a tax return, the most important thing to remember is the tax deadline. If the tax deadline cannot be met, an extension can be requested that gives an individual until October 15, 2012 to file their tax return. If completing a paper tax return, it should always be ensured that the correct form is being used for the current tax year. The IRS website should be utilized since it is the official source for all tax forms and publications.
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