Choose the simplest tax for your situation
- Michelle Wood: SWCD
- January 23, 2011
- 380
A: If you do not use IRS e-file you can get forms and instructions online at http://www.irs.gov, at local IRS offices or from participating community outlets such as libraries or post offices. Taxpayers also may call 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. to request the forms by mail. Taxpayers generally can expect to receive their forms through the mail within 10 days.
Q: How will I know which form to use?
A: If you use IRS e-file, the system will automatically decide which form you need. If you do not use e-file, you will be choosing between three forms: 1040EZ, 1040A and 1040.
Generally, you should choose Form 1040EZ if:
• Your taxable income is below $100,000;
• Your filing status is Single or Married Filing Jointly;
• You and your spouse, if married, are under age 65 and not blind;
• You are not claiming any dependents;
• Your interest;
• Income is $1,500 or less.
You should choose Form 1040A if:
• Your taxable income is below $100,000;
• You have capital gain distributions;
• You claim certain tax credits;
• You claim adjustments to income for IRA contributions and student loan interest.
If you cannot use Form 1040EZ or Form 1040A, you likely will need to use Form 1040. Use Form 1040 if:
• Your taxable income is $100,000 or more;
• You claim itemized deductions;
• You are reporting self-employment income;
• You are reporting income from sale of property.
Q: Where can I get more information?
A: Visit http://www.irs.gov. Tax products are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and often appear online before they are available in paper form. To view and download tax products, visit the IRS website and select Forms and Publications.
This Law You Can Use column was prepared by the Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA). It was provided by the Internal Revenue Service (http://www.IRS.gov). The column offers general information about the law. Seek an attorney’s advice before applying this information to a legal problem. For more information on a variety of legal topics, visit the OSBA’s website at http://www.ohiobar.org.