Tax Time Again

Uh Oh…income tax season is back. The IRS estimates that four out of five returns will be filed electronically this year. Once again, they are sending us only a very limited quantity and variety of forms. Unlike last year, they are providing some instructions, so that’s good news. While we don’t know yet when the paper forms and instructions will arrive, we expect to receive the following: 1040, 1040A and 1040 EZ. We will also get a set of reproducible forms that can be photocopied. They will be sending just one copy of the ever-popular Publication 17 for each building, so those must be used in the library. You can access a PDF version of Pub 17 here.

Meanwhile, for these and for additional forms, instructions and publications, go to http://www.irs.gov/Forms-&-Pubs.  You can read the instructions and/or publications online and print out the forms, either at home or using one of the library’s computers. You also have the option on the IRS site to request that forms be mailed to you. For some taxpayers no-cost online filing through Free File is available.

The Illinois Department of Revenue has confirmed that they will send us a limited number of Illinois forms 1040 and ICR, though they have no estimate of when these will be shipped. The state “strongly encourages all taxpayers to file electronically if they are able.” You can file Illinois Individual Income Tax returns free at MyTaxIllinois.

This year we will offer free AARP Tax Preparation Assistance for middle and low income taxpayers at our Aspen Drive Library. One hour sessions will be available on Tuesday afternoons from February 2 through April 12. You don’t need to be a senior citizen or a member of AARP to use this service, but you do have to make an appointment. Registration will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, January 16. Register for a specific day and time either online or by calling 847-362-2330.