In the next few weeks, millions of Americans will receive tax information from their employers. The April tax deadline will arrive faster than we think. This can be a hectic time for many of us. We all dread the long lines at the post office or the sleepless and stressful nights at the computer.

 

Fortunately, if we plan right now, we can beat the long lines and the stress at tax time. Your plan should include 5 things:

 

1.Creating a checklist: Write down all the items needed to complete your return: Some examples are W-2's, 1099's, receipts, mileage reports, mortgage and utility payments, business travel receipts and charitable giving reports.    

 

2. Taking a day or afternoon: Schedule a time to gather that checklist information in an orderly manner, so take a day.

 

3. Seeking out information: If you are self preparing your returns, go to irs.gov.com  for topics that you have questions about. The IRS site will also give you the phone number of your local IRS office, if you need to talk with a personal IRS official.

 

4. Seek professional help: Set up an appointment with a tax preparer or accountant to have a professional file your taxes. It will cost you a fee, but it will take out all the complications at tax time.

 

5. Set your priorities for your refund: Create a budget for your refund. Look to fund four priorities with your refund: save at least 10%, deposit a portion in your checking account for emergency, pay down personal debt and look for opportunities to give to the needy.