IRS reminds last-minute filers of tax tips

If you've waited until the final few days to file your taxes, you're not alone.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, an estimated 1 million Missourians have waited until now to file their taxes with one day left until the April 15th deadline.

But for David W. Gantt, area manager of Jackson Hewitt Tax Service in Cape Girardeau and Jackson, said the last minute rush has become the norm.

To accommodate the influx of additional customers, its offices in the area have extended hours to 11 p.m. Tuesday and midnight Wednesday.

"Every year we schedule late and come in earlier," Gantt said. "And we work as late as we need to.

"Whatever it takes to get people's taxes finished who have procrastinated is what we'll do," he said. "This time of year we'll see a mad rush toward the end."

Melvin J. Van de Ven, a CPA with Van de Ven accounting firm in Cape Girardeau, said the easiest way for taxpayers to have a peace of mind is to file an extension.

"It's easy to do and will keep your mind clear," Van de Ven said.

IRS spokesperson Michael Devine said an extension gives individuals six additional months to file. The IRS expects to receive about 121,000 extension requests from Missouri taxpayers.

Even though this grants the taxpayer an Oct. 15 deadline, he or she still must pay an estimated amount to avoid interest and late payment penalties.

"If you cannot pay all taxes you owe, file your return by April 15 and pay as much as you can," Devine said. "You may qualify for a short-term extension to pay, an installment agreement or an offer in compromise."

Devine advised calling 800-829-1040 to discuss payment options.

To ensure the most accurate return Devine recommends taking advantage of electronic filing. This option checks errors, increasing accuracy of a return and reducing the need for corresponding with the IRS to clarify any errors. Taxpayers who choose the direct deposit option on the electronic program normally receive their refund in less than 10 days.

Free e-filing is available from 20 companies whose 2008 adjusted gross income was $56,000 or less, which accounts for about 70 percent of all taxpayers. This can be accessed through irs.gov.

"If you're filing a paper return, allow yourself enough time to review the return after it's finished," Devine said. "Double-check the accuracy of all math entries and Social Security numbers, attach all W-2s and appropriate schedules and sign the tax return."

Devine also advised taxpayers earning $42,000 or less to take advantage of free tax assistance available at a few sites.

Devine said that taxpayers seeking assistance must have photo identification and social security cards or individual taxpayer identification numbers for themselves, spouses and dependents. Those seeking help should also bring this year's wage and earnings statements and interest and dividend statements (Forms 1099). He also advised taxpayers to bring a copy of last year's return, along with other information concerning 2008 income and expenses. Those filing jointly must both be present to sign the required forms.

Sites offering the free tax assistance include the East Missouri Action Agency at 205 Plutarch St. in Marble Hill, Mo. from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Wednesday and the Heritage House Senior Center at 305 Cresap St. in Sikeston, Mo., from 9 to 11 a.m. today.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628

Pertinent address:

1020 N Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO

364 S. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO

205 Plutarch St., Marble Hill, MO

305 Cresap St., Sikeston, MO