4 Questions to Ask When Filing a Paper Tax Return

File the Old School Way with a Paper Tax Return

Love the feeling of pen on paper? You’re not alone. A large number of taxpayers still prefer to file a paper tax return, even though the IRS prefers e-filing. For those who are not computer savvy, paper filing is preferable to electronic filing. If you are more comfortable filing a paper tax return, the following common questions may help simplify the seemingly complex process of preparing and filing your return.

1. Do I need to file a tax return?

If you are unsure of whether or not you’re required to file, you may use the ‘Do I Need to File a Tax Return?’ tool on the IRS’s website to determine the criteria. You will need your filing status, federal income tax withheld, and basic information to help you determine your gross income.

2. What is my filing status?

Your filing status can affect your standard deduction, eligibility for certain credits, tax liability, and filing requirements. If you are eligible to use more than one filing status, you may determine which saves you the most by using the ‘What Is My Filing Status?’ tool on IRS.gov.

When you use this service, you will need your marital status and the percentage of the costs that your household members paid towards keeping up a home. If your spouse is deceased, you also need your spouse’s year of death.

3. Where can I download tax forms?

To obtain tax forms, including Form 1040, Form W-9, Form W-4, and other relevant forms, you can use the IRS Forms and Publications page. Tax forms and publications for individuals and businesses are available for download and print. The IRS also provides prior year forms, instructions, and publications for download and print.

If you do not find a tax form that you need in order to file, you may request the form(s) by U.S. mail. You may order up to 100 different products and up to 100 copies of each form you order.

4. Where can I file a paper tax form?

Depending upon the tax form you are filing and your state, the mailing address changes. If you are filing Form 1040, an amended return, or an extension, you can use this IRS page to find the correct mailing address.

You may check the status of your refund by visiting ‘Where My Refund?’ four weeks after you mail your paper return.

If you need any help while filing your paper tax return, contact a tax professional who can help you file a timely and compliant tax return.

*Read the original post on our Tax Defense Network blog