The 'Where’s My Refund' tool on the IRS website provides the most up-to-date information regarding the status of your refund. This tool is updated every 24 hours.

Why should I file my taxes electronically?

The main reason for filing taxes electronically (e-filing) is to get your refund faster. Twenty-four hours after sending your tax return, the IRS will send you a confirmation of receipt or a rejection notice. Generally, e-filing is safer and faster than filing on paper.

Can my spouse and I file our tax return together if we are legally separated and not divorced?

If your divorce is not final, you may choose to file married filing jointly. Just note, that you and your spouse are responsible for the tax bill and any future audits. 

Can I claim charitable donations without a receipt?

Yes, you can as long as you keep good records in case you are ever audited by the IRS. Be sure to record the name of the organization, the date and location, as well as a detailed description of what you donated. Keep notes on the amount you claimed as a deduction and how you figured the fair market value on the items you donated. In the case of a monetary donation, as long as it’s less than $250, a canceled check or even a payroll deduction can suffice for proof of the donation. 

How are my taxes impacted if I have filed bankruptcy?

Depending on which Chapter you filed for, taxes may not be exempt. With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, federal taxes are exempt from discharge. When filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy, it is very important to file and pay your taxes during the bankruptcy proceedings because the court can dismiss your claim if you fail to meet this requirement. Dismissing the claim leaves you responsible for all of your debts. For further tax information on bankruptcy, read the IRS Publication 908 (10/2012), Bankruptcy Tax Guide.

If I forgot to report a second income on my taxes, how can I report it now?

Since it is not a small change (missing form or math miscalculation), missed income probably requires that you file an amendment. You’ll need to file Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, on paper; no e-filing here. Additionally, if any changes you are making need forms or schedules attached, make sure you do so.

Don’t panic, you have three years since the date of filing or two years from paying (whichever is later) to correct the issue. But note, if your amended return claims more refund money, go ahead and cash your original refund check – no need to wait the average 12 weeks it takes to process your amended return. However, if your amended return shows you owe, you’ll want to lower fees and interest by paying those taxes as fast as you can.

You can then track the status of your amended tax return(s) with the IRS’s ‘Where’s My Amended Return’ tool. Check the IRS’s site about three weeks after you’ve mailed your amended return or call Greta Jenkins Tax Service

Why is my refund less than I expected?

Many factors can contribute to why your refund is less than you expected. You have to consider the three elements that define a refund: your taxable income, the amount withheld from your paycheck for federal and state taxes, and your tax rate. If you aren’t getting as much money back try to look on the bright side – you didn’t give the IRS a zero-interest loan.   

Are there a penalty for filing my taxes after the deadline?

Yes, you can opt to pay your tax liability through an installment plan. In addition to paying taxes through an installment payment plan, there may be other options such as the Offer in Compromise (OIC). Under an OIC agreement, the IRS may agree to settle the taxpayer’s liability for less than the full amount of taxes owed. The IRS is not likely to approve an OIC if there’s evidence that the taxpayer could pay the full amount through an installment payment plan or another method. A taxpayer can request consideration for an OIC by filling out Form 656, Offer in Compromise, or Form 656L, Offer in Compromise (Doubt as to Liability), and mail the application package to the IRS.

What documents do I need if I am self-employed?

You will need to file a Schedule C using IRS Form 1040. Depending on your type of business and where you conduct business, there may be other forms you will need. You may also need to make quarterly estimated payments by filing Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals.

What documents do I need if I have a mortgage?

Your mortgage company should send you Form 1098 which reports the mortgage interest you paid. 

What documents do I need if I am unemployed?

If you received unemployment benefits from your state over the past year, you must claim that as income and, therefore, pay taxes on those benefits. The unemployment agency should provide you with a 1099-G form, which explains the amount of benefits you drew during the past year. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) receives a copy as well and will tax you at the appropriate rate in your tax bracket. Not everyone owes. If you worked a portion of the past year, chances are you paid payroll taxes and may earn a refund if those deductions were overpaid.

When is the earliest that I can file my taxes?

When you get your W-2, you can have your taxes prepared right away, but the IRS will not accept them before a pre-defined date.

What paperwork should I bring to my tax interview?

Below is a list of documents to bring with you to your tax interview. 

PERSONAL INFORMATION FOR EACH FAMILY MEMBER:

• Name
• Date of Birth
• Social Security Card /ITIN/ATIN
• Last Year’s Tax Return
• Valid Driver’s License

INCOME AND TAX INFORMATION:

•  W-2’s
• Interest (1099-INT or substitute)
• Dividend Slips (1099-DIV or substitute)
• Stock Sales (1099-B or Broker Statement)
• Self-Employment Income and Expenses
• Sale of a Personal Residence
• Rental Income and Expenses
• Sale of any Business Assets
• Gambling or Lottery Winnings (W-2G for some winnings)
• State Income Tax Refund (1099-G)
• Pension Income (1099-R)
• Estimated Taxes Paid
• Social Security or Railroad Retirement (SSA-1099 or RRB-1099)
• IRA or 401(k) Distribution (1099-R)
• Unemployment Compensation (1099-G)
• Miscellaneous Income (1099-MISC)

DEDUCTIONS/ADJUSTMENTS:

• Medical Expenses
• Real Estate or Personal Property Taxes
• Mortgage Interest
• Charitable Contributions (cash and non-cash)
• Employee Business Expenses
• Gambling Losses
• Moving Expenses
• Traditional IRA Contributions
• Higher Education Expenses
• Educator Expenses
• Student Loan Interest

TAX CREDITS:

• Child Care Provider/Address and Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN)
• Adoption Expenses
• Retirement Savings Contributions Credit