Who Should File an Income Tax Return?
Salaried Persons
If income is above $13,850 (single) or $27,700 (married filing jointly).
Freelancers and Self-Employed
If your net income is over $400.
Business Owners
All businesses need to file federal tax returns.
People with Investment Income
Dividends, interest, or capital gains must be declared.
Foreign Income or Property
You must disclose all foreign income and assets.
Refund Claim
Even if your income is below the limit, file to claim the TDS refund.
Documents Needed to File Federal Tax Returns Online
Form W-2 – For salaried employees.
Form 1099 – For freelancers and independent contractors.
Form 1098 – For mortgage interest deductions.
Bank Statements – To check interest income.
Social Security Number (SSN) – For you and your dependents.
TDS Certificates – To claim tax credits.
Investment Proofs – To claim tax deductions.
Last Year’s Return – Helps with carry forwards and data verification.
Steps to File Income Tax Return Online
Step 1: Collect All Documents
Gather W-2, 1099, bank statements, and other income proofs.
Step 2: Choose the Correct ITR Form
Pick the right form based on your income type and status.
Step 3: Log in to the IRS E-filing Portal
Visit irs.gov and sign in or create an account.
Step 4: Fill in Personal and Income Details
Enter SSN, address, income, and deductions.
Step 5: Claim Deductions and Tax Credits
Input deductions like student loan, medical, and home interest.
Step 6: Preview and Verify All Details
Double-check your entries before submitting.
Step 7: E-File Your Return
Submit it online and keep the acknowledgment copy.
Best Online Tools for Filing Income Tax Return
IRS Free File – A free tool by the IRS for low-income earners.
TurboTax – User-friendly, great for salaried people.
H&R Block – Ideal for both simple and complex filings.
TaxSlayer – Offers good support at a low price.
FreeTaxUSA – Reliable for federal tax returns with audit support.
Tips for Easy Filing of Income Tax Return
File Early – Avoid a last-minute rush and reduce the chance of errors.
Use Auto-Fill Options – Some portals fetch W-2 and 1099 automatically.
Store Records Safely – Keep past returns and proofs safe for 3 years.
Use Direct Deposit – Get a refund directly into your bank.
Check for New Tax Laws – Always verify if any new credits or deductions apply.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong Bank Details – This can delay your refund.
Wrong SSN or Name – Must match exactly with your Social Security card.
Not Reporting All Income – IRS already has your W-2 and 1099 details.
Missing Deductions – Don’t forget student loan interest, HSA, etc.
Skipping Filing If Income Is Low – File to get refunds or credits.
Filing of Income Tax Return for Self-Employed Individuals
Calculate Gross Income
Include all project payments and freelancing income.
Deduct Business Expenses
Travel, internet, office, and tools.
Pay Self-Employment Tax
Includes both the employer and employee share of Social Security and Medicare.
Keep Invoices and Receipts
Essential during tax audits.
Filing of Income Tax Return for Seniors (65+)
Higher Standard Deduction
Seniors get an extra deduction above the regular limit.
Retirement Income
Pension, Social Security, and IRA withdrawals must be reported.
Medical Expenses
Can be claimed if they exceed 7.5% of AGI.
Free Filing Tools
IRS Free File and AARP offer free help.
Refund Status after Filing Federal Tax Returns
1. Use the “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
The IRS offers a tool called “Where’s My Refund?”, available on the IRS website and the IRS2Go mobile app.
You can check your refund status:
24 hours after e-filing your return
4 weeks after mailing a paper return
To use this tool, you’ll need:
Your Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
Your filing status
The exact amount of your refund
2. Refund Processing Time
In most cases, refunds are processed and issued within 21 days if:
You file electronically
You choose direct deposit
However, your refund may take longer if:
Your return has errors or missing information
The IRS needs to verify your identity
You submit a paper return or an amended return
3. How to Avoid Refund Delays
To reduce the chance of delays:
Check all entries on your return for errors
Ensure your income and tax details match the IRS records
Submit complete and accurate information
Use e-filing and direct deposit for quicker processing
4. Still No Update After 21 Days?
If it’s been more than 21 days and there’s no update:
Call the IRS to ask about your refund status
How Filing Early Helps You Stay Ahead
More Time for Corrections
Early filing of income tax returns gives you time to fix errors if found.
Avoid Website Glitches
IRS and tax filing sites slow down near the due date. Filing early prevents delays.
Faster Processing of Refunds
The earlier you file, the quicker you get your refund.
Peace of Mind
Once your federal tax returns are submitted, you can relax and plan your year.
Filing for Those with Multiple Jobs
W-2 from Each Employer
Include all W-2 forms from every job you worked.
Avoid Over-Paying or Under-Paying Tax
Combine all income to avoid under-reporting.
Better Planning for Next Year
Filing of income tax returns helps you understand how much tax was withheld overall.
Why E-filing is Better Than Paper Filing
Quicker Acknowledgment
Online federal tax returns are accepted and processed faster.
Lower Error Rates
Tax software does the math and reduces human error.
Easier to Store and Retrieve
Your e-filed return is stored online and is easy to access later.
Direct Refund Deposits
Filing of income tax returns online allows for faster refunds via direct bank credit.
Role of Tax Professionals in Filing
Expert Review of Tax Credits
They make sure you don’t miss any deductions or credits.
Helps with Complex Returns
If you own a business, invest in stocks or crypto, or have foreign income.
Error-free Filing of Income Tax Returns
Professionals ensure accuracy in form selection and document matching.
Guidance on Audit Risk
They help you avoid IRS red flags during federal tax returns.
Filing Taxes for the First Time? Here’s What You Need
Create an IRS Account
Go to irs.gov and register with your details.
Gather All Forms and ID Proofs
Have your SSN, income forms, and bank info ready.
Use Guided Tax Software
Many sites guide first-timers through the filing of income tax returns step-by-step.
File Before the Deadline
Avoid late penalties by filing your federal tax returns early.
How Married Couples Should File Returns
Filing Jointly vs. Separately
Joint filing often gives bigger tax breaks and credits.
Tax Brackets and Deductions
Filing jointly changes your tax slab and deduction amount.
Clear All Shared Income
Declare combined income to avoid tax mismatch.
More Refund or Less Tax
Filing income tax returns together often leads to a better refund.
How Tax Refunds Work
What Is a Tax Refund?
If you paid more tax than needed, the IRS returns the extra.
How to Get It Faster?
File federal tax returns online with the correct bank info.
What Can Delay Refunds?
Errors in SSN, missing forms, or unmatched numbers.
Where to Track Refund?
Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” page.
Filing for People with Student Loans
Student Loan Interest Deduction
Up to $2,500 can be claimed on your federal tax returns.
Bring the 1098-E Form
Get this from your loan service provider.
Claim Even If You Didn’t Pay Much
If interest was paid, it qualifies for the return.
Filing of income tax returns ensures eligibility for benefits.
Required for income-driven repayment or forgiveness programs.
Filing Returns with Foreign Income
All Income Must Be Reported
Foreign salary, rent, or investment income must be declared.
Use Form 8938 or FBAR
Required if foreign assets cross a certain limit.
Avoid Penalties
Non-reporting can lead to heavy fines.
Use Help if Needed
Many CPAs assist with the international filing of income tax returns.
Filing for Part-Time and Gig Workers
Collect All 1099-NEC or 1099-K
From platforms like Uber, Fiverr, Etsy, or DoorDash.
Report All Tips and Cash Payments
These are also part of your income.
Deduct Business Expenses
Phone bills, fuel, and internet may qualify.
File Your Federal Tax Returns With Schedule C
Use this to report business profit/loss.
If you want expert help with the filing of income tax returns, Meru Accounting offers a simple and efficient solution. Our team helps you choose the right ITR form based on your income and sources. We ensure accurate return filing and carry out a full review before submission. Our aim is to help you get the maximum refund you deserve. We provide full support for both federal tax returns and state returns. With affordable pricing and fast service, Meru Accounting makes your tax filing process smooth, stress-free, and accurate. Online filing of income tax returns has made tax filing easy and fast for all. You can use digital tools or take expert help to file your federal tax returns with ease. Stay ahead by filing early, verifying all entries, and keeping records safe.
FAQs
- Is it mandatory to file income tax returns every year?
Yes, if your income is above the basic exemption. - What is the last date to file for FY 2025-26?
The last date is April 15, 2026, for most individuals. - Can I file tax returns online without any cost?
Yes, IRS Free File and other platforms offer free options. - Can I file my federal tax returns using my phone?
Yes, many apps support mobile filing. - What if I miss the filing deadline?
You may need to pay penalties and interest. - When will I get my refund?
Usually within 21 days if e-filed and using direct deposit. - Do I need to report small freelance income?
Yes, even $400 or more must be reported.
