IRS Free File now accepting 2021 tax returns COVID Tax Tip 2022-16, January 31, 2022 — IRS Free File, available only through IRS.gov, is now accepting 2021 tax returns. Taxpayers beware: Tax season is prime time for phone scams Tax Tip 2022-15, January 27, 2022 — With the new tax season starting this week, the IRS reminds taxpayers to be aware that criminals continue to make aggressive calls posing as IRS agents in hopes of stealing taxpayer money or personal information. Why taxpayers should have their tax refund direct deposited Tax Tip 2022-14, January 26, 2022 — As the 2022 filing season begins, the IRS encourages taxpayers to file electronically when they are ready and choose direct deposit to get their refund. How a taxpayer’s filing status affects their tax return Tax Tip 2022-13, January 25, 2022 — A taxpayer’s filing status tells the IRS about them and their tax situation. This is just one reason taxpayers should familiarize themselves with each option and know their correct filing status. An overview of the credit for other dependents Tax Tip 2022-12, January 24, 2022 — Taxpayers with dependents who don't qualify for the child tax credit may be able to claim the credit for other dependents. Common tax return mistakes that can cost taxpayers COVID Tax Tip 2022-11, January 20, 2022 — Tax laws are complicated but the most common tax return errors are surprising simple. Many mistakes can be avoided by filing electronically. How small business owners can deduct their home office from their taxes Tax Tip 2022-10, January 19, 2022 — The home office deduction allows qualified taxpayers to deduct certain home expenses when they file taxes. To claim the home office deduction on their 2021 tax return, taxpayers generally must exclusively and regularly use part of their home or a separate structure on their property as their primary place of business. Understanding the adoption tax credit Tax Tip 2022-09, January 18, 2022 — Taxpayers who adopted or started the adoption process in 2021 may qualify for the adoption credit. This credit can be applied to international, domestic private, and public foster care adoption. Here are reasons people who don’t normally file should file a 2021 tax return COVID Tax Tip 2022-08, January 13, 2022 — With tax filing season is just around the corner, this is a good time for those who don’t normally file to consider the benefits of filing a 2021 tax return. Filing can help them claim a refundable tax credit or get an income tax refund. Taxpayers must report gig economy earnings when filing taxes Tax Tip 2022-07, January 12, 2022 — Whether it’s a full-time job or just a side hustle, taxpayers must report gig economy earnings on their tax return. Understanding how gig work can affect taxes may sound complicated but, it doesn’t have to be. It’s important for taxpayers to know the difference between standard and itemized deductions Tax Tip 2022-06, January 11, 2022 — Taxpayers have two options when completing a tax return, take the standard deduction or itemize their deductions. Most taxpayers use the option that gives them the lowest overall tax. Mark the calendar: Important backup withholding deadlines Tax Tip 2022-05, January 10, 2022 — Some businesses and other payers take backup withholding from payments they made to certain people. These entities should remember their upcoming filing deadlines. Tax filing step 1: Gather all year-end income documents COVID Tax Tip 2022-04, January 6, 2022 — As taxpayers are getting ready to file their taxes, the first thing they should do is gather their records. IRS sending information letters to recipients of advance child tax credit payments and third Economic Impact Payments COVID Tax Tip 2022-03, January 5, 2022 — The IRS started issuing information letters to advance child tax credit recipients in December. Recipients of the third round of the Economic Impact Payments will begin receiving information letters at the end of January. Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov anytime for answers to tax questions Tax Tip 2022-02, January 4, 2022 — As people get ready to file their 2021 tax return, the IRS reminds taxpayers they can find answers to their tax questions from the comfort of home using IRS online tools and resources. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights: Protection for all taxpayers Tax Tip 2022-01, January 3, 2022 — Two key elements of the IRS mission are to treat taxpayers with dignity and respect, and to provide them a positive customer experience. Tax tip archive IRS tax tips from January 2011 forward.
