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STORY FROM
Get the most out of your tax return,
every step of the way
By: Stephanie Walden, for H&R Block
Step one:
Collect your paperwork
The first step is to get all your paperwork in one place. This includes any tax forms you’ve received from employers (W-2s) or, if you’re self-employed, any income forms you’ve received (1099s, Schedule K-1s, etc.).
You’ll also want to collect any receipts for business expenses if you plan to itemize, receipts for charitable donations, investment forms to prove gains or losses, and documents related to rental or retirement income. If you invested in cryptocurrencies in 2021, you’ll also need documentation if you made or lost money throughout the year.
Finally, have your identifying documents in hand, including a government-issued ID, your Social Security card and any notices from the IRS.
Step two:
Choose how to file
Next, you’ll want to decide how you’d like to file this year. You’ve got two filing options: paper-based and e-filing, either online or through virtual drop-off.
This year’s federal tax filing deadline is April 18, 2022 for everyone except residents of Maine and Massachusetts. In those two states, the federal tax deadline is April 19, 2022. You’ll want to check on your individual state’s filing dates, as well.
Step three:
Ask a tax pro any outstanding questions
Whether your return is relatively straightforward or you’ve got a more complex situation, you’ll likely have a few questions as you’re gathering all the forms to file your 2021 taxes.
Turning to the pros is the best way to ensure accuracy — and that you’ll get the absolute most out of your return.
Step four:
File your return
Now, it’s time to file. If you’re filing online on your own, be sure to double- and triple-check all your information — and don’t hesitate to upgrade for expert help if you have any lingering doubts.
If you’re using the services of a tax professional, read through your return and sign in the areas indicated.
Step five:
Review your old returns
Once you’ve got your 2021 taxes squared away, it may be worth reviewing old returns to make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table.
With changing policies regarding credits and deductions, the past couple years’ tax returns have been more complicated than normal — and you may be eligible for credits you haven’t claimed.
Share your tax documents with one of H&R Block’s tax pros by dropping them off at at a tax office in person or uploading them virtually. Chat with your tax pro on the phone, via video chat/screen-share or swing by the office at any point — the process is completely up to you.
How H&R Block can help:
Regardless of how you’d like to file, H&R Block offers many ways to get help. No matter how much help you need, their tax pros have an average of 10 years’ experience — meaning you’ve got on-demand access to expertise you can count on.
How H&R Block can help:
How H&R Block can help:
Stop by an H&R Block office to chat with an experienced tax professional who will make your return as easy to understand as possible. Or, opt to chat with an expert online or on the phone. If you prefer the DIY route, H&R Block Online makes it as simple and seamless as possible — and you’ve always got the option to upgrade the service and ask an expert at any point in the process.
How H&R Block can help:
By seeking guidance from one of H&R Block’s tax professionals, you can file with confidence, knowing you’ll get the biggest refund possible, guaranteed.
Learn more about the many ways H&R Block can offer help this tax season.
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If you worked with a tax pro for this year’s return, “Get a Second Look Tax Review” service makes double-checking past returns a cinch. If you filed yourself or with another tax service at any time over the past three years, H&R Block can review your returns to help you and get every credit and deduction you deserve.
How H&R Block can help:
10
years
experience
This year’s tax return may be more complicated than those you’ve filed in the past — so to tackle your taxes with utmost confidence, it can be a good idea to seek some help from the pros.
When it comes to your return, every dollar counts. Luckily, H&R Block is a one-stop resource for all your tax needs. Their Max Refund Guarantee ensures you get every refund dollar you deserve — or your money back. And with many ways to seek help — virtually/remotely, in person in an office or a mix of both — you can rest assured you’ll get the help you need whenever, wherever and however you need it.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide for getting your taxes in order this year.
With taxes, as with life, it can pay to be proactive.
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