Check here for a list of resources, links and phone numbers to help fill out your federal income tax return.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website has detailed information for individuals and businesses on filing their federal tax returns.
When, Where and How to File
April 17, 2012 is the due date for filing your 2011 Federal individual income tax return, if your tax year ends Dec. 31. Your return is considered filed timely if the envelope is properly addressed and postmarked no later than April 17, 2012.
IRS Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the Internal Revenue Service's questions and answers section. It is reformatted and has additional topics for tax year 2011. The section is exceedingly detailed, organized alphabetically by topic. If you still need more assistance, click here.
Telephone tax refund
You may also be eligible for the telephone tax refund on your 2011 federal income tax return. To learn more about the refund, you can click here.
Charity tax law changes
Several changes were made in the past few years regarding charitable donations. You now must have a bank record or written communication for any donation from the charity. The form must include the name of the charity, the date and the amount of the contribution. To learn more, you can click here.
IRS walk-in centers
You can visit these centers for help with a tax question. If your income is $35,000 or less, you can get help on filling out a basic tax return. No appointments taken. Walk-ins only. The address is 1999 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202. For other locations, click the link above or call 303-446-1675.
Free Tax Preparation Sites
Only for low-income earners (generally for salaries below $35,000). You can also call 1-800-829-1040 for site locations or 211 (Mon. - Fri.) in the metro area for help.
AARP Tax Aide for Seniors
Available to people of all ages with middle and low income, with special attention to those age 60 and older. 1-877-227-7844.
Choose a certified public accountant
For professional help filling out your tax return, you may want an accountant. Contact the Colorado Society of CPAs for a referral. 303-773-2877.
If you need more time or can't pay
If all else fails, ask the IRS for an automatic four-month extension to file your return by filling out Form 4868. Taxpayers can also request an extension over the phone by calling 1-800-829-1040 or through IRS e-file.
Filing Late Returns
Important: The extension applies only to the return, not to taxes owed. You will owe interest on any amount not paid by April 17, plus a late payment penalty if you haven't paid at least 90 percent of taxes due by the deadline.
If you cannot pay in full either directly or through the use of loans or credit cards, the IRS offers you partial payment options through short term extension of time to pay and installment agreement.
Topic 202
Additional time beyond the automatic four-month extension is granted only for very good reasons. You may apply for an extension beyond the automatic four-month extension either by writing a letter to the IRS or by filing Form 2688 (PDF).
10 Ways to stay out of trouble with the IRS
Mistakes on your tax return can be costly. You may miss out on valuable tax deductions and credits. What's more, you risk attracting the attention of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The Colorado Society of CPAs provides the following advice to help you minimize errors on your tax return and stay out of trouble with the IRS.
Useful telephone numbers:
For general info from the IRS, 24 hours a day, call 1-800-829-1040.
For recorded information on common tax topics and refund information call 1-800-829-4477.
For requesting copies of forms and publications 1-800-TAX-FORM or 1-800-829-3676.
If you are hearing impaired, call 1-800-829-4059.
If you need tax information or publications in Spanish, call 1-800-829-3676.
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