How to Not File Taxes at the Last Minute

Many people end up paying unnecessary penalties for filing late taxes. Other people spend their day at the post office on the 15th of April because they waited until the last minute to prepare their taxes. Here's are some ways to ensure that you aren't one of the many taxpayers who file their taxes at the last minute.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Get the appropriate forms from the federal, state and local governments. Download the IRS forms from the Internal Revenue Service's website. Go to your state and local government's website to download the appropriate forms. If you do not have access to the Internet, call each agency and request the forms via postal mail.
2. Make an appointment to complete your tax forms. You can make this appointment before you receive all of your tax documentation. If a professional is handling your taxes, call him and make an appointment early before your accountant's schedule gets completely booked. If you're preparing your own taxes, set a day aside on your calendar for preparing taxes. Schedule it just as if you were using a professional.
3. Review your W-2s and tax documentation on February 1st. By law, you should receive the necessary tax documentation by January 31st. On February 1st, review all of your documents to ensure that you have everything you need to file your taxes. It's early enough in the tax process to request copies of any missing documents.
4. Prepare your taxes. Now that you have all of the necessary forms and documentation, there is nothing stopping you from preparing your taxes. There are no more excuses for filing your taxes at the last minute.

Tips & Warnings

• Aim for a date in February or early March to avoid last-minute filing.