April 15th seems far away but we know from experience it’ll be here before you know it. When it comes to taxes, we all love to relive our college days of procrastinating – but why go through that stress? Be wise this year and submit your taxes earlier instead of later. Stop procrastinating and start filing.
Here are responses to the top 5 procrastination excuses:
1. “I’ll deal with taxes in April.”
Really? Just think of all the activities you’ll be doing in April when the weather starts warming-up. During that time, do you really want to stay inside to file your taxes? While cold weather is limiting your activities, stop procrastinating and start filing your taxes.
2. “I don’t know where to begin.”
The easiest way to begin a daunting task is just to start doing and stop thinking. The more you think, the more excuses you’ll come up with to procrastinate. H&R Block has an easy checklist to follow. Click here to view. Print this checklist and staple it to the outside of a folder. Set your timer for 30 minutes and each day work your way down the checklist. It’s that simple to stop procrastinating.
3. “I need to find a tax preparer.”
If you plan on hiring a professional to compute and submit your taxes, then you really need to start now. Many GOOD tax preparers will be too busy to fit you in their schedule in April. When looking for a tax preparer follow these tips from the IRS. Two key tips are qualifications matter and do NOT sign a blank tax return.
4. “I’m confused about taxes.”
Aren’t we all? The tax code is over 73,000 pages. If your situation is complicated, spend money to hire a reputable and qualified tax preparer. Even if you hire someone, you need to stay updated on tax tips and scams. For those items, use IRS social media. Yes, the IRS has gone social. They are on Facebook, Twitter and even YouTube. You can also subscribe to their e-newsletter which offers tax tips. Click here to read more about what the IRS offers.
5. “I’m not getting a refund – I PAY taxes.”
Many people postpone writing their check to the IRS until April. But that action should not stop you from computing your taxes earlier in the year. If you know in February how much you need to pay in April, you’ll have time to set aside funds. But more importantly, you’ll give yourself (or your tax preparer) adequate time to address any issues and to find opportunities for tax savings. Even if you decide to file an extension, you still need to estimate your tax payment and write that check by April 15. Why prolong the pain? Stop procrastinating and start filing.
While it appears you have plenty of time before April 15, we all know time goes by quickly. Stop procrastinating. Take advantage of winter months keeping you inside and get your taxes done earlier this year.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Her firm bridges the gap between financial planning and coaching. As a Transition Consultant, she offers sage advice in all aspects of life – financial, personal and professional. Her services include spending plan development, divorce financial review, life strategy and professional progression. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me’.”