How to Find Tax Forms and Instructions

When you've got all your tax information together and are ready to sit down and compute your taxes, it can be frustrating if you don't have all the right forms.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Calculators
• Internet Access
• File Folders
• Heavy-duty Office Staplers
• Pencils And Erasers
• Computers
• Tax Preparation Software
• Calculators

1. Stop by your nearest post office. Common federal and state forms are often available in the lobby.

2. Go to the nearest IRS office or state tax office. Most will have all the most-used forms for both federal and your state returns on racks in the lobby.

3. Take a number or stand in line to ask for other forms. They're usually stored behind the counter.

4. Go to the public library or to a college or university library and look for the federal books called "1999 Package X" and comparable books for your state.

5. Photocopy the forms and instructions (which follow the forms) that you need.

6. Download and print forms and instructions from the Internet sites of the IRS and your state tax office.

7. Purchase tax software for your federal tax return as well as software for any state returns you must file.

Tips & Warnings

• Most tax-preparation firms have out-of-state forms. Having your taxes done by a professional is a good idea the year you move into a new state. Part-year resident returns can be very confusing.
• Remember to get the instructions as well as the forms; you'll need them and the tax tables to complete your returns.