IRS Info for TY2010

by Charles W. Evans

As conscientiously as you may plan ahead, there is always some obscure little form missing, or irksome question you need to ask at the last minute.

These sources should make life a bit less stressful and your tax preparation easier. I can’t make your preparation less arduous, but the information below will make it easier.

NOTE: On-line e-Filing is even more impressive this year and for many it is free! Most programs offer at least one free filing. I used the e-Filing last year and it does work – earlier refund and direct into my bank!
2nd NOTE: The IRS will not guarantee its own advice. Contacting the IRS - if you call the IRS, make sure that you get the ID number of the IRS employee, their name, the date of the call, the time of the call, and write down the question and the answer. If something happens and it turns out that the IRS employee gave false information and you can provide this information, then the IRS will more than likely waive the penalty.

There are a number of info sources, help, resources and tips (yes, tips!) on the IRS web site. It is user friendly, easy to navigate and you can download and print any form. Two suggestions: print your forms on a laser printer and always use forms from the IRS site. The Digital Daily, at www.irs.gov, is the IRS home page.

If you need forms, you’ll need form numbers, for personal assistance on tax law and account questions and status of your refund call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for the numbers. Download forms and instructions from www.irs.gov.

Do you need a prior year’s form? The Government Printing Office has a CD to solve that problem. Forms since 1994 are just a phone call away: 1-202-512-1800. There is a fee.

For answers to simple, uncomplicated questions use the FAX or voice number. Here again the IRS makes it easier for you to part with your money. Call TeleTax for answers and info on about 170 of the most common subjects, 24/7 at 1-800-829-4477. If your question is not among those covered, you’ll need to talk to a real, live person during normal business hours.

PRECAUTION: Double-check these most common errors. The name in the top section (page 1) of the form should sign it and check the accuracy of the SSNs and dependent’s SSNs.

NOTE: For forms you will need Acrobat Reader, free at www.adobe.com. See also a separate article with specific tax changes for tax years 08, 09 and 10 by Milt.

Charles W. Evans is a HAL-PC member and fellow taxpayer.