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How to Avoid Delays When Filing Your 2023 Tax Return

Tax Information Tax Planning
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Both taxpayers and the IRS sometimes face challenges when filing and processing federal tax returns. To help you out, here are five tips that will help you avoid delays and ensure a smoother tax filing process for both sides.

Tips to help you avoid delays while filing taxes

1. Collect all tax documents before filing

To file the most accurate federal and avoid discrepancies, ensure you have received all the tax forms you need beforehand. You don’t want to omit a vital form accidentally! Make sure you’ve collected all the W-2s, Form 1099s, and any other tax documents detailing your income from last year before you file. Entering inaccurate info could result in costly delays and the potential to miss out on valuable tax credits.

2. E-file your return and use direct deposit to prevent refund delays

Filing paper returns by mail is more tedious for both parties. If you want your return processed quickly, e-filing is the way to go this tax filing season if you have that option.

And here’s another tip — if you want that tax refund money in your bank account as quickly as possible, opt for getting your refund via direct deposit. Combined, these two steps will help ensure swift processing of your tax return and your tax refund amount.

3. Find answers to tax questions online

It’s normal to have questions come up when you’re filing your income tax return. If you need a tax question answered, we recommend looking up the answer to your inquiry online rather than calling the Internal Revenue Service. Calling the IRS can often result in lengthy phone delays.

If you file with us at TaxAct®, we also offer Xpert Assist1 as an add-on feature, which allows you to connect with a tax expert to answer questions you may have about your tax return.

If you’d rather do your own research, try searching our blog for a helpful article or related to your situation. The IRS also has a valuable collection of online tools that can assist you in everything from tracking your refund (Where’s My Refund?) to checking if you are eligible for certain or credits.

1Xpert Assist is available as an added service to users of TaxAct’s online consumer 1040 product. Unlimited access refers to an unlimited quantity of expert contacts available to each customer. Service hours limited to designated scheduling times and by expert availability. Some tax topics or situations may not be included as part of this service. Review of customer return is broad, does not extend to source documents and not intended to be comprehensive; expert is available to address specific questions raised by customer. View full TaxAct Xpert Assist Terms and Conditions.
This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.
All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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