Filing your 2019 taxes may be different from how it used to be. When the COVID-19 pandemic started gripping the country and the entire globe, the IRS has extended the deadline for filing 2019 taxes and the federal tax payments due to the uncertainty brought by the new systems and new realities people have to deal with.
New deadline
Unfortunately, there is no denying that the July 15 deadline is already fast approaching, and the deadline can no longer be moved. So if you are dealing with a new work-from-home set-up or dealing with homeschooling your kid, you have to move.
Perhaps the most efficient way to file and pay your taxes is to do it online. So whether you are currently a full-time worker or a freelance worker, the internet is your best friend because July 15 is just around the block.
How to do my taxes, and can I file my taxes for free?
The IRS offers several steps that US citizens can follow to figure out tax filing effectively as well as how to send payments or ask for refunds through the online e-File method.
There are different ways to file your taxes online, and if your adjusted gross income is $69,000 or below, you can opt to use the IRS Free File Online. This site offers third-party services that can help you in reporting and filing your taxes free of charge.
IRS published new rules that prohibit other suppliers’ practices where they deliberately hide pages on their sites or their software features that show their free services. In turn, this practice makes taxpayers purchase additional features that are not necessary and not free of charge. So beware when selecting or choosing your suppliers or third-party tax services providers. Scammers abound these days as well.
On the other hand, if your gross income is above $69,000, you may still access and fill out the forms provided by the IRS Free File online option. However, you can neither access the free software nor do state taxes through this option. It would help if you used e-File using other software solutions or through an IRS-authorized tax preparer.
Should I use a tax filing software, and what is the best tax filing software?
As mentioned, the IRS Free File offers third-party services to help you file those taxes free of charge. Here are some of the best tax software programs that you can look into when filing your taxes:
1. H&R Block
H&R Block is considered the best free option by Forbes, especially if you have a basic tax return, and you are hoping to file for free this year. The free version has more free forms compared to traditional tax programs such as TurboTax. There are other added paid features and plans, particularly if you need help from a tax expert or have more complex returns.
2. TurboTax
This classic is considered the best expert help. Although similar to H&R Block, their outstanding feature is their live CPA or tax professional add-on. A tax expert can look into your return before filing. The tax expert is also there to answer your questions throughout the entire endeavor.
3. FreeTaxUSA
If you are one of those who do not qualify for other free tax plans with other companies and value affordability, FreeTaxUSA is one of the cheapest options for tax prep. It might not have a user interface as advanced as the other two. You still have access to the basics thanks to their quality software.
If you will use a paid software, remember that you can save money and get rewards by using the TopCashback app on your browser.
July 15 is right around the corner, and despite the current extraordinary circumstances, you still have to file those taxes ASAP. Ask around or do your research so that your tax return becomes one major thing off your burdened shoulders.
