The IRS has released a comprehensive checklist, equipping taxpayers with essential guidance as they gear up to file their 2023 tax returns during the current filing season. These straightforward tips are designed to facilitate smoother tax preparation in 2024. For more information on any of these tips, visit IRS.gov.

GATHER NECESSARY DOCUMENTS

• Ensure accuracy by collecting all essential tax paperwork and records.
• Include Social Security numbers for all individuals listed on the tax return.
• Have bank account and routing numbers ready.
• Gather various tax forms such as W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, and other income documents.
• Include Form 1095-A, the Health Insurance Marketplace statement.
• Keep any IRS letters referencing a specific tax deduction or credit amount.

REPORT ALL INCOME TYPES

• Include all sources of income to avoid potential IRS notices or bills.
• Account for income from goods sold on online platforms, investment income, part-time or seasonal work, self-employment, and services provided through mobile apps.

FILE ELECTRONICALLY FOR FAST REFUND

• Utilize electronic filing with direct deposit for the quickest refund.
• Avoid paper returns to reduce processing time.
• Electronic filing through tax software helps prevent errors by guiding users through a question-and-answer format.
•  Special tip for those awaiting their 2022 tax return processing: Enter $0 for last year's adjusted gross income (AGI) on the 2023 tax return. Everyone else should enter their prior year's AGI from last year's return.

EXPLORE FREE RESOURCES FOR ELIGIBLE TAXPAYERS

• IRS Free File offers a free online alternative for individuals or families with an income of $79,000 or less in 2023.
• Access leading tax software providers' products for free through the IRS website.
• For those earning over $79,000, utilize IRS Free File Fillable Forms, suitable for those comfortable with self-preparing taxes.
• Qualified taxpayers can access free one-on-one tax preparation assistance through programs like Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE).

CONSIDER FILING OPTIONS

• Choose a filing option based on personal circumstances and comfort level with tax preparation.
• Options include personally filing taxes, using online filing services, or hiring a tax professional.

UTILIZE ONLINE RESOURCES

• Avoid lengthy phone wait times by using online resources at IRS.gov for tax inquiries, refund status checks, or tax payments.
• Access 24/7 online tools, including the Interactive Tax Assistant and Let us help you resources.

STAY UPDATED WITH IRS ONLINE RESOURCES

• Follow IRS social media accounts and email subscriptions for the latest tax updates and alerts.
• Download the IRS2Go mobile app and follow the IRS on YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for real-time information on tax changes, scam alerts, initiatives, products, and services.