IRS offers tips for last-minute tax filings

The IRS lists Web sites that offer electronic filing services, which check for errors and necessary information and often speed up the issuance of refunds. State and federal returns can be filed simultaneously.

For a list of IRS-backed e-filing services, go to www.irs.gov/efile.

For taxpayers whose 2006 adjusted gross income was $52,000 or less, the IRS offers free electronic filing. The service is available at www.irs.gov.

If a request is submitted today, taxpayers can receive an automatic six-month extension on their return filing. The form for requesting an extension is Form 4868 and is available at www.irs.gov. A separate request must be filed for an extension on payment.

Traditional route

To file a paper return, items must be postmarked today. Springfield’s main Post Office, 500 W. Chestnut Expressway, has extended its hours today and will be open until 7 p.m.

The IRS recommends checking returns for the most common errors: put all required Social Security numbers on the return, check figures for accuracy, sign the form and attach all required schedules.

Benefits reminder

The IRS is reminding taxpayers of two benefits that some could be eligble for on their 2006 returns.

The telephone excise tax refund is a one-time refund of long-distance excise taxes available to taxpayers who paid phone bills between March 2003 and July 2006.

Also, taxpayers who earned less than $39,000 in 2006 could qualify for the earned income tax credit, worth up to $4,536. When the tax credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it could result in a refund. Eligibility requirements are available at www.irs.gov.[[In-content Ad]]