Individuals can begin filing their taxes today, and area tax professionals say a bit of assistance can help reduce tax liability.
Changes in the tax code take effect each year. According to H&R Block Tax Professional Michelle Bachtel, individuals will need to ensure that this year they don’t overlook steps when it comes to reconciling their healthcare situation.
“Whether they have health insurance, didn’t have health insurance, had health insurance for part of the year, there are additional steps that need to be taken this year, so it’s really important they not overlook those steps,” says Bachtel.
Those filing their taxes with a professional will need to bring any income related documents – which can include 1099 forms, Social Security statements, and show documents if they sold or rented their homes.
Since 2010, the IRS has cut 12-thousand jobs. Representatives have even made requests that the public call their offices less frequently with questions due to the constraints.
Bachtel says tax professionals spend countless hours every year keeping up-to-date with changes in the tax code.
“Audits are random, but you can rest assured that if you’re using somebody that’s professional and does this year round, not just part-time, that you’re going to have better math calculations, you’re going to have better deductions, you’re going to know that you were qualified to take everything that you took,” says Bachtel.
While taxes aren’t due until April, Bachtel says there are few benefits to filing early other than getting a refund check more quickly. The IRS typically allots 15 to 21 days to deliver any refunds.
