The FAQs On How To File Taxes As A Beginner (2024)

Trying to figure out how to file your taxes for the first time on your own? Here are some FAQs on how to files taxes as a beginner.

Can you believe that the time in your life has come for you to figure out how to file your own taxes? So many people struggle with this each and every year but the truth of the matter is that it doesn’t have to be that hard. In fact, just having a simple plan in place will ensure that you can easily file your taxes on time and in an efficient manner to get any money owed back to you as quickly as possible.

If you’re ready to file your own taxes, there are a few tips to keep in mind. This post will help to answer some of the most common questions that people have when it comes to riling their own taxes.

How do I file my taxes for free online?

Did you know that there are some states that you can file your state taxes online for free? You’ll have to verify and see if you live in one where this is the truth but it can be a great way to save money and be able to file your state taxes totally free.

If you’re ready to file your taxes online, there are many great online tax resources such as H&R Block that can be a great resource for online tax filings. TurboTax is also another popular choice as well.

Make certain that you research the ones that you’re interested in before making your choice.

Is it better to use TurboTax or H&R Block?

This all depends on what you’re looking for. There are some people that like to file with H&R Block for the sole fact that they also have businesses in town that you can physically go into and ask questions should a problem arise.

Both have been used by millions of people around the world so you just have to choose the one that fits best with what you need.

How do I file my taxes for the first time?

If you’re new to filing your own taxes, welcome! It’s something that you’ll now be doing for the rest of your life. But the good news is that there are plenty of ways to get it done.

You basically really do have three options for filing your own taxes:

  • You can go to the IRS website and file there
  • You can use another online resource to have help with filing
  • You can hire an accountant to help you with the process.

Any of these options are a great choice and is a good way to get your taxes filed in a quick and efficient manner.

Then check with whatever platform you’re using on what documents you need to file your taxes. Typically, you need your W2 and any proof of income.

What happens if I don’t file my taxes?

If you fail to file your taxes, you’re more than likely going to incur a penalty for your costly mistake. This is going to be a percentage and will accrue over time. Once you finally file your taxes, this penalty will be assessed and you’ll either have to pay that penalty off or it will be withheld from your return once you file.

Benefits of Filing Your Taxes Online and On Time

Now that you know some of the main ways that you can file your taxes, let’s talk about some of the benefits of filing your taxes with plenty of time to spare.

  • If you take the time to file your taxes on time, you’re not going to get any sort of penalties. This means that you’ll be in good standing with the IRS
  • You’ll get your refund from them a lot faster as well if you’re able to choose direct deposit for your refund. There’s a good chance that you’ll get it back within a very few short weeks.
    • Those who choose to receive a paper check are slowing down the process and it just tends to take longer overall to get any sort of refund.
  • Also, when you file your taxes online, most companies also do offer you a peace of mind guarantee that they’ll be there to help you should you get audited from the IRS. This is something very important to find out before choosing how to file your taxes.

And once you get the hang of it, you’ll breeze through your tax filings each and every year and find out that there is nothing to worry about at all!

RELATED:

  • The FAQs On How To Start Saving Money For Retirement Early
  • How To Improve Your Credit Score As A Beginner
  • Why You Need An Emergency Fund (And How To Start One Easily)

The FAQs On How To File Taxes As A Beginner (2024)

FAQs

How do I do taxes for the first time? ›

How to File Your Taxes for the First Time
  1. Determine whether you're required to file.
  2. See if you qualify for tax deductions or credits.
  3. Gather your documentation.
  4. Get help.
  5. Safeguard against identity theft.
  6. Double check your return.
  7. File your tax return.
  8. Use direct deposit if you're due a refund.
Jan 12, 2023

What is the simplest way to do your tax return? ›

File your taxes
  1. Use IRS Free File. Almost everyone can file electronically for free on IRS.gov or with the IRS2Go app. ...
  2. Use the VITA Locator Tool. ...
  3. Find a tax professional. ...
  4. Use the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA)

What are 3 basic ways to file your taxes? ›

There are three main ways to file taxes:
  • Fill out IRS Form 1040 by hand and mail it (not recommended),
  • File taxes online using tax software, or.
  • Hire a human tax preparer to do the work of tax filing.
Apr 19, 2024

Is filing taxes yourself easy? ›

Although the United States tax code is a complex one, it's not difficult to do your taxes on your own. That is, as long as you use a quality software solution to guide you through the process. Consider signing up for TurboTax, H&R Block or another leading software solution now to get started.

How long does it take for first time tax filers? ›

If you file your return electronically, your refund should be issued in less than three weeks, even faster when you choose direct deposit.

What is the least amount of income to file taxes? ›

$13,850

What are the basics of taxes? ›

Common types of taxes include income, payroll, sales, and property taxes. Income taxes are federal, state, and local taxes that may be collected on income, both earned (salaries, wages, tips, commissions) and unearned (interest, dividends).

What are three options in filing taxes? ›

You can prepare your taxes on your own, use online tax preparation software, or hire a professional tax preparer like a CPA. No matter which method you choose, you will need to have certain information on hand to prepare your return.

What disqualifies you from a simple tax return? ›

Here are some scenarios where you won't qualify for a simple tax return: You're self-employed or a freelancer (1099 tax forms) You're a small business owner. You earn rental income.

How do I get the most tax refund? ›

4 ways to increase your tax refund come tax time
  1. Consider your filing status. Believe it or not, your filing status can significantly impact your tax liability. ...
  2. Explore tax credits. Tax credits are a valuable source of tax savings. ...
  3. Make use of tax deductions. ...
  4. Take year-end tax moves.

How much does it cost to do a simple tax return? ›

If you're wondering what the average costs for filing common forms are, here's the breakdown: $323 for a Form 1040 with a Schedule A and state return. $220 for a Form 1040 (non-itemized) and state return. $192 for Schedule C (business)

What is the biggest mistake you can make concerning your taxes? ›

Filing too early.

While taxpayers should not file late, they also should not file prematurely. People who don't wait to file before they receive all the proper tax reporting documents risk making a mistake that may lead to a processing delay.

What do I need to start filing taxes? ›

The first step to filing your taxes is to provide personal information, including including the bank account where you want your tax refund to be deposited.
  1. Your full name.
  2. Date of birth.
  3. Social security or tax ID number.
  4. Home address.
  5. Previous years' tax records.
  6. Bank account information for direct deposit refunds.
Feb 15, 2024

What is the safest way to file taxes? ›

If you decide to file your taxes either through the IRS website or a tax software service, be sure to use a private Internet connection such as your own internet at home or someone you trust. If you want to be extra vigilant, consider using a VPN (virtual private network) for additional security.

Can I file taxes electronically for the first time? ›

Navigating the tax return preparation process can be intimidating if you're filing for the first time. IRS Free File can help. This program provides free tax preparation, free electronic filing and free direct deposit for eligible taxpayers.

How to file taxes together for the first time? ›

How to file taxes together
  1. Gather tax documents for both you and your spouse. ...
  2. Decide whether you'll claim the standard deduction or itemize. ...
  3. Choose a filing method. ...
  4. File your taxes. ...
  5. Start preparing for next year.
Feb 25, 2020

How much money do you need to make to start paying taxes? ›

So as long as you earned income, there is no minimum to file taxes in California. It is a good idea to talk with a tax professional to determine your filing status and whether you are required to file or could benefit from doing so anyway.

Does my 17 year old need to file taxes? ›

Being a minor doesn't exempt a teen from paying taxes, but it doesn't necessarily mean they're required to file a separate tax return from their parents. As a general rule, most U.S. citizens and permanent residents need to file a tax return if they make more than a certain amount for the year.

Top Articles
Landlord Insurance FAQs and Answers
Why Mark Cuban is leaving 'Shark Tank'—and 3 of his biggest moments on the show
Katie Pavlich Bikini Photos
Gamevault Agent
Hocus Pocus Showtimes Near Harkins Theatres Yuma Palms 14
Free Atm For Emerald Card Near Me
Craigslist Mexico Cancun
Hendersonville (Tennessee) – Travel guide at Wikivoyage
Doby's Funeral Home Obituaries
Vardis Olive Garden (Georgioupolis, Kreta) ✈️ inkl. Flug buchen
Select Truck Greensboro
How To Cut Eelgrass Grounded
Craigslist In Flagstaff
Shasta County Most Wanted 2022
Energy Healing Conference Utah
Testberichte zu E-Bikes & Fahrrädern von PROPHETE.
Aaa Saugus Ma Appointment
Geometry Review Quiz 5 Answer Key
Walgreens Alma School And Dynamite
Bible Gateway passage: Revelation 3 - New Living Translation
Yisd Home Access Center
Home
Shadbase Get Out Of Jail
Gina Wilson Angle Addition Postulate
Celina Powell Lil Meech Video: A Controversial Encounter Shakes Social Media - Video Reddit Trend
Walmart Pharmacy Near Me Open
Dmv In Anoka
A Christmas Horse - Alison Senxation
Ou Football Brainiacs
Access a Shared Resource | Computing for Arts + Sciences
Pixel Combat Unblocked
Umn Biology
Cvs Sport Physicals
Mercedes W204 Belt Diagram
Rogold Extension
'Conan Exiles' 3.0 Guide: How To Unlock Spells And Sorcery
Colin Donnell Lpsg
Teenbeautyfitness
Weekly Math Review Q4 3
Facebook Marketplace Marrero La
Nobodyhome.tv Reddit
Topos De Bolos Engraçados
Gregory (Five Nights at Freddy's)
Grand Valley State University Library Hours
Holzer Athena Portal
Hampton In And Suites Near Me
Stoughton Commuter Rail Schedule
Bedbathandbeyond Flemington Nj
Free Carnival-themed Google Slides & PowerPoint templates
Otter Bustr
San Pedro Sula To Miami Google Flights
Selly Medaline
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Jamar Nader

Last Updated:

Views: 5699

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (55 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jamar Nader

Birthday: 1995-02-28

Address: Apt. 536 6162 Reichel Greens, Port Zackaryside, CT 22682-9804

Phone: +9958384818317

Job: IT Representative

Hobby: Scrapbooking, Hiking, Hunting, Kite flying, Blacksmithing, Video gaming, Foraging

Introduction: My name is Jamar Nader, I am a fine, shiny, colorful, bright, nice, perfect, curious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.