If you were granted a tax filing extension and want to pay more than you need to…this blog is not for you. For anyone else, who was granted an extension, this post will help you to avoid the failure to file a penalty and also guide you on everything you need to make your tax filing go as smoothly as possible.

The extended individual tax filing deadline is October 15. If you have not filed your 2021 taxes yet, you have less than a month to complete this task or risk facing steep penalties.

The fine for missing the deadline is known as the failure to file a penalty. This penalty equals 5% every month you don’t file up to 25% of what you owe.

To put this in perspective, if you owe $10,000 in taxes, and fail to file on time, you’ll owe an extra $500 a month up to $2500. In many places, $2500 is a month or two of rent.

The best way to avoid this penalty is to meet with a tax preparer as soon as possible. When you do meet with your tax preparer, here’s what you should bring to be prepared:

Forms of identification including

• Photo ID
• Social Security Cards
• TIN assignment letters for you, your spouse, and dependents (if applicable)
• Bank account information if receiving direct deposit for return (voided check can also work)
• Last 2 years of tax returns
  

Income documents including

W-2 form(s) for all jobs last year

• 1099-NEC and/or 1099-K 
• Records of income not reported on 1099 forms
• Records of expenses including receipts, credit statements, etc.
• Record of estimated tax payments
• SSA-1099 form for Social Security benefits (if retired)
• 1099-R for pension/IRA/annuity income (if retired)

• 1099-G (if you received unemployment income or refund of state/local income taxes)

• 1099-R (if you received disability income)
• Documents for income or loss from the sale of stocks, bonds, or real estate (if applicable)
• Documents for alimony received (if applicable)
• Statements for prizes or lottery/gambling winnings (if applicable)
• Documents for any other income

Expense documents to claim tax deductions including

• 401k or IRA contributions
• Taxes paid on the state and local level
• Mortgage and property tax bills
• Receipts for charitable donations
• Records for supplies used as an educator

Everyone’s situation is different. It’s best to call a tax preparer as soon as possible to know precisely what is needed for your appointment.

Don’t spend 25% more on taxes by missing the deadline. Book an appointment with a tax preparer today and be prepared by gathering all the documents you need to make your appointment go smoothly.

Don’t pay more than you need to.

File today.

A.K. Burton, PC, has been working with the IRS for our clients for many years. Our firm has experienced accountants and lawyers who can represent you before the IRS and resolve any issues you may have. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation.

We serve the Bethesda, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD area.

For more information, visit the Tax Outreach website.