Timely File Your Tax Returns

Filing your tax returns on time might be in your best interest to avoid paying additional penalties and interest. If you generally receive a refund, you technically have three years to file, but if you owe, you must file by the due date, which is usually April 15th (April 18th for 2023).   Filing too early can cause problems because updates and changes are still happening.

Here are the basics to the process for new clients.

If you are an employee, upload last year’s W2s, Drivers License or ID, and any other documents that you might have, like 1099’s or 1098’s, to the Client Portal using the Guest Exchange. Send your Profit/Loss statement or income and expenses if you are self-employed.

Send an introduction email to stephanie@paulinestaxservices.com to relay any other relevant information.

Once the returns are complete, I will send you a copy for review. The password for all protected documents will be the last 5 of the primary taxpayer’s social security number.

If everything looks good after reviewing the client copy, sign the e-file authorization documents and pay the tax preparation costs; then returns will be e-filed.

File Past Tax Returns

The process is the same as above. Generally, start with the last three years, and then we will determine the next steps.

Automatic 6 Month Extension of time to file

If you filed (or plan to file) an extension, the final due date is October 15th.  The extension is ‘of time to file’, not ‘of time to pay’, so if you will owe or have a balance due, it will still be accruing interest/penalties for failure to pay, so filing sooner rather than later is a good idea. If you file an extension, but then do not file by October 15 the extension is void and the return will be considered late.