Today is the deadline to get your finances in shape for the taxman.
The last day to file 2011 tax returns has been pushed back two days because April 15 - the normal deadline - fell on a Sunday and Monday was Emancipation Day, a holiday in Washington D.C.
Verona and Cedar Grove residents who want to file a paper tax return can pick up last-minute 1040 forms at either the Cedar Grove Public Library, 1 Municipal Plaza, and Verona Public Library.
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The 4868 tax form to file for an deadline extension is also available at the library as well. Tax payments are still due on the regular date but the deadline to file the paperwork for a tax return is extended to Oct. 15. Extension forms may be downloaded by clicking here.
Use the Online Payment Agreement application or by filing Form 9465, Installment Agreement Request with your return. Click here for more information. However, the IRS charges a user fee to set up your payment agreement.
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The Verona Post Office, located at 682 Bloomfield Ave., Verona, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Cedar Grove Post Office at 519 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Taxpayers can also chose to file their tax returns electronically through the Internal Revenue Service's e-file or the Free File programs.
The Internal Revenue Service's website also has video tutorials for last-minute tax filers and lists services and other important tax links.
The IRS also lists eight common tax mistakes to avoid:
Incorrect or missing Social Security numbers
When entering SSNs for anyone listed on your tax return, be sure to enter them exactly as they appear on the Social Security cards.
Incorrect or misspelling of dependent’s last name
When entering a dependent’s last name on your tax return, make sure to enter it exactly as it appears on their Social Security card.
Filing status errors
Choose the correct filing status for your situation. There are five filing statuses: Single, Married Filing Jointly, Married Filing Separately, Head of Household and Qualifying Widow(er) With Dependent Child. See Publication 501, Exemptions, Standard Deduction and Filing Information, to determine the filing status that best fits your situation.
Math errors
When preparing paper returns, review all math for accuracy. Or file electronically; the software does the math for you!
Computation errors
Take your time. Many taxpayers make mistakes when figuring their taxable income, withholding and estimated tax payments, Earned Income Tax Credit, Standard Deduction for age 65 or over or blind, the taxable amount of Social Security benefits and the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
Incorrect bank account numbers for direct deposit
Double check your bank routing and account numbers if you are using direct deposit for your refund.
Forgetting to sign and date the return
An unsigned tax return is like an unsigned check – it is invalid. Also, both spouses must sign a joint return.
Incorrect adjusted gross income
If you file electronically, you must sign the return electronically using a Personal Identification Number. To verify your identity, the software will prompt you to enter your AGI from your originally filed 2010 federal income tax return or last year's PIN if you e-filed. Taxpayers should not use an AGI amount from an amended return, Form 1040X, or a math-error correction made by IRS.
