Income Tax Deadline Approaching

Time is running out to file those income taxes.

Wednesday, April 15 is the deadline to file.

Internal Revenue Service Spokesman Mark Green said the agency expected a busy weekend as they were still waiting on an estimated 1 million or so tax returns in Georgia alone as of late last week.

Green said for those who have not filed yet, the key is take your time and gather all of the necessary documentation.

He said the IRS recommends that people file their taxes electronically if possible.

“They can prevent identification information from being leaked out to a third party, but most importantly you can definitely have your refund direct deposited into your checking or savings account within 21 days,” said Green.

Doing a paper return can take up six to eight weeks, or maybe longer, to get a refund, said Green.

Green also encouraged “Free File” online for those making less than $60,000.

As for those who are filing via a paper return, Green said they should be careful and make sure everything on the tax return is correct before sending it in.

“I strongly encourage you to re-check, re-check, re-check,” said Green. “Make sure you sign the return. Definitely double check the data that goes on that return.”

For those who cannot file their taxes by the end of the day Wednesday, the IRS does offer extensions until October 15.

Green said the important thing is to file something by the April 15 deadline.

According to Green, an extension gives you more time to file, but not to pay taxes owed.

For those who need more time to pay any taxes owed, Green said those people should pay what they can now and then reach out to the IRS to communicate their situation.

“You can set up an installment agreement,” said Green. “Contact us.”

For answers to tax-related questions and tax information, visit www.irs.gov.

Green said calling the IRS is resulting in very long wait times, so the agency is asking that people use the website to answer any tax questions if at all possible.