IRS tax deadline approaching
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Tuesday is the deadline to file state taxes in Alabama.
Troy University Assistant Professor of Accounting Dr. Dena Mitchell says while the process can be complicated, it’s important to start with the basics.
“The IRS pretty much is going to get the same information that you get,” she said. “So as long as your employer is doing their job, you’re going to get your W-2, and as long as you report it, and you report exactly what’s on your W-2, you shouldn’t have any issues.”
However, the more sources of income and the more financial accounts you have, the more likely it is that you should consider getting professional help.
“The IRS actually has free software now,” said Mitchell. “They have a program called free file direct, and if you make less than $84,000 a year, you can use their program for free.”
Other online tax preparation services include TaxAct, Turbo Tax and H&R Block. But if you need in-person assistance, don’t hesitate to seek out a certified public accountant or CPA.
Dr. Mitchell says in-person assistance is also available free of charge in some communities for taxpayers who have lower incomes.
“Troy University students participate in the VITA program, which stands for volunteer tax assistance, and we actually go out into the community and prepare taxes for free for lower income and senior taxpayers because those are generally the people who don’t use computers quite as much.”
If you do happen to misreport something on your taxes, don’t worry. Dr. Mitchell says you won’t go to jail, you’ll just get a letter from the IRS asking you to correct the mistake.
Alabama is one of seven states that have until May 1 to file federal taxes, according to the Internal Revenue Service. The IRS postponed the original deadline for several states because of disaster caused by Hurricane Helene in September.
State taxes are still due in Alabama by April 15.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect that Alabama was given a disaster tax relief by the IRS, meaning Alabamians have until May 1 to file federal tax returns.
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