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Step 1
First look at the 1040EZ. This is typically the shortest and easiest forms. You can typically use this if your total income is under $100,000 and your interest income is under $1,500. You typically can only have income from wages, interest, unemployment, and Alaska Permanent Fund dividends. You also typically can not have any income adjustments, claim tax credits, or itemize your standard deductions. You also typically need to be under 65 years old.
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Step 2
If that doesn't work look at the 1040A. This forms lets you claim most common adjustments to income. The catch is that you can typically only use it if your total income is under $100,000 and do not want to itemize their deductions.
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Step 3
Now if that doesn't work you may need the Form 1040. Typically anyone can use this. The drawback is that it takes longer to fill out. You typically must use Form 1040 if you have income of $100,000 or more; are itemizing deductions; have income from a rental or business or form or s-corporation or partnership or trust, have foreign wages; sold stocks or bonds or mutual funds or property; or are claiming adjustment for education.
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Step 4
Look at other forms you may need. These include but are not limited to Form 709 if you gave more than $12,000 to an individual in a year.
