With the April 15th tax deadline looming, this article provides crucial last-minute tips, warns against using general-purpose AI for tax prep due to accuracy and security risks, and details how to avoid penalties, get free help, and ensure a smooth filing process.
As the April 15th income tax deadline approaches, taxpayers have one week left to file or request an automatic six-month extension and pay any owed taxes. This guide offers essential last-minute advice to prevent common pitfalls. **Beware of General-Use AI for Taxes:** Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel strongly advises against using platforms like ChatGPT or Google Gemini for tax preparation. These general-use AIs are not trained or tested for tax compliance, may provide inaccurate or generic solutions, lack data security for sensitive financial information, and could lead to tax returns being flagged for human review, delaying refunds. **Free Help is Available:** For last-minute questions or filing assistance, taxpayers can use the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant. Low-income filers aged 60+ can access free help through VITA/TCE sites or by calling 800-906-9887; AARP and MilTax also offer free assistance for eligible individuals. **Avoid Penalties and Interest:** If you owe taxes but can't file by April 15th, submit Form 4868 for an automatic extension until October 15th. Crucially, pay as much of your owed tax as possible by April 15th to avoid late-payment penalties (0.5% per month, up to 25%) and interest (on both tax and penalties). Failing to file an extension with a balance due incurs a late-filing penalty (5% per month, up to 25%, with a minimum of $525 or the tax due if over 60 days late). **Double-Check Your Work:** Before submitting, meticulously review all calculations, proofread personal details like Social Security numbers, and ensure all third-party tax forms (e.g., W-2s, 1099s) are accurately included to prevent processing delays. **Speed Up Your Refund:** To receive refunds within the typical 21-day window, opt for direct deposit by providing account information on your return. You can even split refunds across up to three accounts using Form 8888. Otherwise, the IRS will send a letter requesting deposit information, or issue a paper check after six weeks. **Mailing Tips:** For those mailing returns or payments, file electronically for efficiency. If mailing, visit a USPS retail location and request a manual postmark by April 15th to ensure it's dated correctly. For proof of mailing, consider certified, registered, or certificate of mailing services.
