Himes: Here Are Some Resources to Help with Your Tax Filing

This year’s income tax filing deadline is April 15. I want to let you know that there are a number of resources available to help you as you prepare your tax return.

Online

A good starting point is the main website of the Internal Revenue Service, irs.gov. There, you can find links to tax tips, online calculators, forms and instructions, and answers to common questions.  There are links of interest to individual filers, small business owners, and non-profit organizations, as well as a section written in Spanish. A few of the features include:

• Free File , tax preparation software available through the IRS website at no cost to those with an adjusted gross income of $57,000 or less.

• Information about often-overlooked tax breaks or credits including the Earned Income Tax Credit for working taxpayers who earn less than $50,270 and the American Opportunity Tax Credit which helps offset the cost of college tuition.

• Tax information for Connecticut residents who suffered losses as a result of Superstorm Sandy, some of which may be deductible.  

• Help for those age 60 and older, through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program

• In-person tax preparation assistance for others who qualify for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.

• A tool to track the status of your refund.

If you have specific questions, the IRS provides an online tool to help you find answers. You may also call the IRS for help or go to a local Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). The IRS operates two Taxpayer Assistance Centers in the Fourth District; they are in Norwalk and Bridgeport. Additionally, there are TAC’s in Danbury and Waterbury. The addresses, hours, and services offered are available here.

You can also find a wide variety of informational videos for individuals, businesses, non-profits and more at tax.gov.

On the Go

If you have a smartphone, you can track the status of your refund (including the date you can expect it to arrive) and get simple, straightforward tips and assistance with your taxes. Download the free IRS2Go app for Apple or Android devices.

On Social Media

There are a number of informative videos at the IRS YouTube channel.
The IRS tweets tax tips and other information at @IRSNews.
The IRS Taxpayer Advocate also uses Twitter @YourVoiceAtIRS.
And, the IRS recently launched a blog on Tumblr.

I hope you find these resources helpful and informative as you complete your 2012 return. If you have questions about his or any other matter, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at 866-453-0028 or by writing me here.