Step by Step Guide on Filing Income Tax Form 1040

Step by step guide to filing a 1040 income tax form.

Having to prepare your personal income tax return (form 1040) can seem like a bad dream, especially when you first glance at the form. Fortunately, it is possible to use the IRS website to access instructions to assist you with preparing your own form 1040. The instructions will allow you to complete each line of your form 1040 in a quick and efficient manner.

Instructions

Preparing the Form 1040

1. Navigate to the IRS website (See Resources).

2. Click in the "search" box located in the top left corner and enter the phrase "form 1040."

3. Select the link "instructions 1040" at the top of the webpage.

4. Print the form 1040 instructions.

5. Gather all your income and expenses incurred for the tax year for which you're filing.

6. Fill out the "Label," "Filing Status" and "Exemptions" sections at the top of Page 1 on Form 1040.

7. Follow the instructions for completion of each line on Page 1 and Page 2 of form 1040.

8. Attach a copy of your and your spouse's (if applicable) W-2s to the completed 1040. If filing online, you will not be required to attach a W-2.

Filing a Hard Copy

1. Sign and date the completed form 1040. Be sure to have your spouse sign as well, if applicable. This step is used if filing a hard copy instead of filing electronically.

2. Ensure the form is accurate and complete by reviewing each section.

3. Send the hard copy form in to the IRS address listed on the form.

Filing Electronically (e-filing)

1. Enter your self-selected personal identification number in the tax software you are using to complete form 1040. The PIN is used in place of signatures. Note: you must enter both your spouse and your PIN if filing "Married Filing Jointly".

2. Review the information entered to ensure accuracy.

3. Follow the e-filing instructions for the tax software you used to complete your form 1040.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a tax due, you must attach a check to your completed form 1040.

• If you have a refund, you may select to have it directly deposited by the IRS into your bank account. Enter your bank information at the bottom of Page 2 of the form 1040.

• You are not required to send in copies of W-2s if you are e-filing.

• E-filing instructions will depend on the type of software you are using to prepare form 1040.

• While preparing your form 1040, you may need to complete several forms or schedules that are required to be attached to your form 1040. The form 1040 instructions will refer you to any other forms or schedules that need to be completed.

• If you have complicated tax issues, such as owning your own business, owning rentals or running a farm, it would be to your advantage to consult with a tax professional before completing form 1040.

References

• IRS
• IRS: Form 1040 Instructions

Resources

• IRS