The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is reminding taxpayers that the next couple of weeks are the busiest time of year for IRS calls. While many questions can be answered through their website, we have compiled a list of common questions and our answers to help you file your taxes quickly and accurately.
Where’s my refund?
We can tell you from our experiences that the hold time when calling into the IRS is generally excruciatingly long. However, you may not need to be on a call to receive quick service. We recommend using the IRS' web-based tools. Taxpayers can easily find information about their refund by using the where’s my refund tool; available online and through the mobile app IRS2Go.
This tool provides taxpayers with the most up-to-date information available. The IRS issues more than 90% of refunds in less than 21 days.
IRS representatives cannot provide individual refund information before then.
Where's the nearest IRS office?
Be sure to make an appointment before visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). However, this time of year is also a peak time for TAC visits. If you are unable to make an appointment, you can find answers to your questions on the IRS website.
I have a question about tax law
The Interactive Tax Assistant takes taxpayers through a series of questions the same way a customer service representative would. While the IRS Tax Map is no longer in service, you can still use their website to view current and previous tax code.
How do I find my prior-year adjusted gross income (AGI)?
On a tax return, the AGI is on line 11 for both Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR. If taxpayers changed tax software products this year, they may need to manually enter their adjusted gross income to complete the electronic filing process.
The IRS also has more information on validating your electronically filed tax return with options for taxpayers who did not retain a copy of their tax return.
I did not receive a Form W-2, what should I do?
Employers are required to send their employees a Form W-2, Statement of Earnings, by Jan. 31. If your Form W-2 is not received by the end of February, employees should first contact their employer to ensure they have the correct mailing address on file. After exhausting all options with the employer, employees may contact the IRS. The IRS will send a letter to the employer. However, the IRS urges taxpayers to wait until after Feb. 27 to avoid long wait times on the telephone.
Where can I get a copy of my tax return or transcript?
Taxpayers can easily order a return or transcript on the IRS website. Use the get transcript page to download a transcript or have a transcript mailed.
I am unable to pay a tax bill, what should I do?
If you believe you cannot pay a tax bill, there are options to apply for a payment plan. There are several criteria on the page that outline whether you qualify for a payment and how to apply.
Can I get help with preparing my taxes?
Local community partners operate about 13,000 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) sites nationwide.
There are also free tools that can assist in preparing and filing your taxes.
Taxpayers may also use a searchable directory on the IRS website for help to find a tax professional with credentials. This directory allows individuals to search by specific credentials and criteria that they are looking for.
For more tips and information about retirement plans, contact us.
