According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) , you must file a federal income tax return if you are a citizen or resident of the United States or Puerto Rico, and you meet the filing requirements . Taxpayers are encouraged to get a head start on tax preparation, especially because early filers avoid the last minute rush and get their refunds sooner. Failure to file a federal tax return can be costly. For instance, you could end up owing more or missing out on a refund.
A tax toolkit was developed by the IRS and the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) . This toolkit makes it easier for you to understand basic tax information and is available to you 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Even if you do not owe taxes, you should file to get money back if federal income tax was withheld from your pay, or you qualify for a refundable credit. Refundable credits include:
For additional information, you may contact the IRS by phone at 1.800.829.1040 (TDD: 1.800.829.4059).
Additional Resources:
- 1040 Central
- IRS e-file
- Choose the Tax Form that Best Fits Your Needs
- Where to Mail Tax Returns
- How to Contact the IRS
- Top 10 Tax Time Tips
- IRS Forms and Publications
- Prior Year Forms, Instructions and Publications
- Taxpayer Options for Direct Deposit of Refunds
- Publication 17 - Your Federal Income Tax
- Tips for Seniors in Preparing their Taxes