I’ve covered taxes at CNET the last two years.
During this time, I’ve been asked many tax questions by colleagues, friends and family.
Most are aboutmaximizing refundsand thebest tax software optionsto use.
Here are some of the most common questions I’ve answered so far.
Is the IRS going away?
There’s little to no evidence that the Internal Revenue Service is being dismantled.
The agency is crucial to funding the expenditures of the federal government and enforcing tax law.
However, I understand why the question is being asked.
The IRS, along with other federal agencies, has faced threats of staff cuts.
Last week, the IRS beganlaying off up to 25% of its workforce.
A hiring freeze is also in effect across the federal government after anexecutive order signed by Trumpon Jan. 20.
To date, neither the layoffs nor the freeze have delayed the processing oftax refundsthis year.
What’s the best filing option if you have to file multiple state returns?
Jackson Hewitt offers federal filing and unlimited state returns for $25, regardless of your tax situation.
The service is pretty bare bones, however, with no option to upload files or tax forms.
A decent alternative to Jackson Hewitt isFreeTaxUSA, which charges just $15 per state return.
Federal filing is free, no matter your tax situation.
Services likeTurboTaxandH&R Blockwill charge you substantially more per state return, especially late in tax season.
Do I have to pay the IRS by April 15 if I’m waiting on a state refund?
If you have a federal tax bill, you’ll need to pay it by April 15.
If you haven’t filed yet, don’t expect to see your state refund by the filing deadline.
Does my child need to file taxes?
I’ve been asked this question a few times by parents with teenagers that have picked up part-time jobs.
Are services like TurboTax and H&R Block really free?
Both TurboTax and H&R Block havefree tax filing optionsavailable to taxpayers.
Only 37% of all customers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition, according to the company.
Both work well if you qualify, but both services will give a shot to upsell you.
Should you increase your withholdings if you live and work in different states?
In most cases, this won’t be necessary.
The state where you reside will typically give you a tax credit for taxes paid to another state.
How do I claim student loan interest on my taxes?
To claim it, you simply have to add the form to your tax return.
Here are all of the tax forms I’ve received.
What online option works best for me?
Everyone’s tax situation is different.
Those with more complicated tax situations will likely have to pay to file their tax return.
Can I file an extension with the IRS and pay later this year?
Will you file my taxes for me?
Many like FreeTaxUSA andTaxActalso offer contextual help to answer common tax questions.
For more tax advice, check out ourtax filing cheat sheet.
Here’s how you cantrack your refund status.
