By Daily Press staff
As April begins, about four out of 10 California taxpayers still need to do their taxes, according to the Internal Revenue Service. Here are 12 questions and answers to help these taxpayers meet the Monday, April 17 deadline: QUESTION: Why is the tax deadline on April 17 this year? ANSWER: Normally the tax deadline is April 15, but that date falls on a Saturday this year, so California taxpayers will have until Monday, April 17 to file. Even with those two extra days though, try to avoid the last-minute rush.
QUESTION: Where can I get IRS forms and publications? ANSWER: Internet: You can download forms and publications on the IRS Web site at www.IRS.gov. Walk-in: During the tax-filing season, many libraries and post offices offer free tax forms to taxpayers. Some libraries also have copies of commonly-requested publications.
QUESTION: How should I go about choosing a paid tax preparer? ANSWER: While most paid return preparers provide excellent service to their clients, be as careful in choosing a tax preparer as you are in selecting your doctor or lawyer. Be careful with tax preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers. Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of your refund. Never sign a blank tax form.
Find out your paid return preparer’s credentials. In California, all tax preparers who are not an attorney, a CPA or an enrolled agent — this last category comprises tax preparers who have passed an IRS test — are required to register with the California Tax Education Council. CTEC ensures that its members meet educational requirements and are bonded.
QUESTION: How can I get free tax assistance? ANSWER: Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040, or the AARP Tax Aide at 1-888-227- 7669. These hotlines have information on volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) and tax aide sites that help low-to moderate-income taxpayers, the elderly with their taxes and the earned income tax credit. Los Angeles County has more than 150 such sites, but days and hours of operation vary. Some sites serve taxpayers on a walk-in basis, while others require an appointment.
QUESTION: What is the earned income tax credit? ANSWER: The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a tax credit for low-to moderate-income people who earn under $37,263. A tax credit usually means more money in the pocket. It reduces the amount of tax owed. But to claim it, you have to file a federal tax return and have social security numbers for yourself and your qualifying children. Use the EITC Assistant at www.irs.gov. It’s available in English and Spanish, and is an easy way to determine EITC eligibility. The earned income tax credit could help more taxpayers nationwide, but only about 75 percent of those who are eligible actually participate. VITA and AARP Tax Aide sites can help many taxpayers with the EITC.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 6, 2006. Read the original PDF.