How should a first time tax filer file his taxes?

Question

I'm filing my taxes or tax return or whatever you call it for the first time. What should I do?

Answer 1

What they said.

Answer 2

First time is like everyone else.

1. Do it yourself. You can get the forms and instructions on-line at the IRS website. Some taxpayers can also prepare their returns on-line through links there.

2. Go to a tax service. They're everywhere, though the cost is rather high for what you get.

3. Do it yourself with a commercial tax prep package like Tax Cut or Turbo Tax.

Answer 3

I am going to assume that because this is your first time filing you have only wage income. If so, you can go to www.irs.gov and look around to see if you are eligible for "free e-file". Or you can go to your locoal department store (Wal*Mart or Office Max) and purchase a tax program for roughly $30.00. In my opinion H&R Blocks' Tax Cut is the best program and its easy to understand. That may be your best bet. Its worth the money, the average accountant can charge $70 - $150 for a average wage return.

Answer 4

Go to a professional tax preparer, or if you want to do it yourself, call the IRS (1-800-829-1040) and order a copy of Publication 17. Read Part 1 of the publication and go from there. Good luck!