How to File Taxes Online at H&R Block

For accountants, the busiest time of the year is from January through April--better known as "Tax Season." Although it's not busy for you in the same way, you're still thinking about completing your taxes before they're due to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). While you can choose to use a tax professional, consider filing your taxes online through H&R Block.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, 1098s)
• Checking or savings account number (optional)
• Credit card number (optional)

1. Gather your personal and tax information. In addition to your name, social security number, daytime telephone number and address, you're going to need your previous year's taxes--if filed--and current tax year information. Depending on your circumstances, these documents can include W-2s, 1099s, 1098s and any other information that is applicable to your situation.
2. Visit H&R Block's website. Through their website, you can view the options available for online filing.
3. Choose the best filing option. For 1040EZ and simple returns, there's the "Basic" choice. If your taxes include itemized deductions or investments, you’re going to want to choose "Premium." Both the "Basic" and "Premium" choices offer E-filing. If you're looking to file your State Return through H&R Block, choose "Premium + State."
4. Register for H&R Block to begin. If you're a returning customer, sign in to the site to resume your taxes.
5. Input your information in the appropriate boxes. H&R Block's TaxCut software will guide you through the process by asking you questions concerning your income and expenses. You'll also be asked concerning dependents and other deductions you may have, such as property and real estate taxes, charitable contributions, and un-reimbursed business expenses.
6. Follow the prompts on TaxCut to finish your taxes. Check for any discrepancies or errors and run the "Federal Wrap-Up" and "State Wrap-Up" options.
7. File your taxes through H&R Block. If you're expecting a refund, you can enter your checking or savings account information to receive a direct deposit from the IRS. For paying taxes due, you can use either a credit card--with an added surcharge--have the money directly withdrawn from your checking or savings account, or choose to pay by sending a check to the IRS.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're not quite ready to go it alone in filing your taxes online, H&R Block offers three "Do It With Me" levels of support.
• Save all documents used to prepare your tax returns in case of a future audit.