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Community Corner

5 Last Minute Tax Filing Tips

Move over e-filing, mobile tax filing is on the rise with nearly 50% of people using their smartphones to file their taxes. We are fast approaching the tax deadline set by Uncle Sam, and this stressful time can be much simpler when following these tips from Cricket on using a mobile phone to prepare and file taxes, plus a few tips!

For those early birds who have filed their taxes already, these tips are not lost on you.  There’s always next year, so read on!

1. Stay updated with IRS Procedures

While the IRS won’t initiate electronic contact with taxpayers, they do have open channels of communication through which they provide a series of tips, suggestions, and services available. Cricket recommends downloading this year’s IRS2Go app so you can access the right information and the best tips 24/7. The app is available in both English and Spanish on iPhone and Android.

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2. Timing is Everything

The deadline to file taxes is April 15th; filing after this date results in fines. You can also file a 6-month extension by that date, but you still must pay in full all taxes owed by April 15th. We recommend you set some time apart from your busy schedule to focus solely on your taxes. Use your smartphone to set up reminders and alarms when for deadlines as they approach.

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  • Consumer Tax Insight: A recent national survey found that only 5 percent of consumers are willing to admit to filing taxes last minute, but the crowds at tax shops and lines at post offices often tell a different story. Meanwhile, 42 percent of consumers claim they file their taxes with adequate time before the deadline, and 3 percent indicate they usually file extensions.

3. Use your Smartphone to File your Taxes

Nearly half (45%) of consumers say they would be comfortable filing their taxes via a smartphone, according to the same national survey. Many joint and single filers who have no dependents can submit form 1040EZ. Fortunately, smartphones and apps like TurboTax SnapTax and H&R Block – both available on iOS and Android – can make filing this form a breeze. Just submit a snapshot of your W-2 to get started. TaxCaster (iOS, Android, Windows) is a handy tax calculator that helps any taxpayer calculate their tax refund.

4. Keep Track of your Spending

Moving forward, save your receipts to keep track of spending. Apart from helping in tax-filing season, this will help you set an accurate monthly budget to determine recurrent expenses. We recommend using Expensify (iPhone, Android, Windows, and BlackBerry) or OneReceipt to keep track of your receipts. These apps allow you to take pictures of your receipts, categorize, and file them electronically for future tax-filing seasons.

5. Be on the Lookout for Scams

The IRS never initiates contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages, emails, and social media channels. Scammers thrive during this time. Also beware of phone calls by scammers pretending to be the IRS and demanding payment immediately via debit card or wire transfers.

Smartphones are quickly growing in popularity, because every day we can use them to accomplish more. Filing taxes is a delicate matter, and Cricket’s nationwide network is reliable and sure to support you as you file your taxes. See below for more detail. 

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