The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).
Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. With a little preparation, you can streamline the process, reduce anxiety, and make tax season feel like just another task on your to-do list. Staying organized, gathering the necessary documents, and understanding what’s ahead can go a long way in reducing the stress often associated with filing. Plus, when you’re prepared, you can ensure you’re taking advantage of every deduction and credit you’re entitled to. Here’s how to make your tax season smooth and stress-free:
1. Know When to Expect Your W-2
One of the first steps to reducing tax stress is knowing when to expect your W-2. Most employers send these by the end of January, and once it arrives, you’re one step closer to filing your taxes. If it doesn’t show up by the second week of February, it’s time to take action. Reach out to your employer for a copy, or if needed, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 for assistance. The sooner you have your documents, the sooner you can get your taxes filed and put that stress behind you.
2. Use a Tax Prep Checklist to Gather Everything You Need
If this is your first time filing your taxes or you’re worried about forgetting something important, using a tax prep checklist can help minimize stress. A checklist will guide you through the necessary documents so you don’t have to guess what’s needed. ezTaxReturn offers a detailed checklist that covers all the bases. For most simple returns, you’ll need your SSN, birthdates, W-2s, and account details if you want to set up direct deposit for your refund. Gathering everything in advance will make tax filing faster and easier, saving you from last-minute scrambling.
3. Download a Copy of Last Year’s Tax Return
When you’re ready to file, you’ll likely need your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from the previous year, which is found on Line 11 of your 1040 form. This is used for e-filing and can reduce the stress of having to dig through paperwork later. If you filed with ezTaxReturn last year, simply download a copy of your return to easily access this information. Having it ready will make the filing process smoother and help you avoid unnecessary delays.
4. Store Your Receipts in One Location
Missing receipts can lead to lost savings and increased stress, often manifesting as physical signs like tense muscles, headaches, and fatigue. Find an empty shoe box or folder and store all your tax documents in one place. Hold on to any receipts that can potentially lower your tax bill. For instance, medical/dental expenses, childcare, charitable donations, and home office expenses. Organize them by category to make the process of entering deductions much easier. This small habit will save you time and reduce the stress of scrambling at the last minute.
5. Remember the Filing Deadline
The most important date to remember is April 15th, the federal tax filing deadline. Missing this deadline can lead to unnecessary penalties and interest, so it’s best to plan ahead and file on time. By getting organized early, you can avoid the stress of rushing through your return at the last minute.
6. Make Time to Do Your Taxes
Once you’re prepared, take the time to file your taxes early. Filing early helps you avoid the stress of last-minute filing and ensures you get your tax refund as quickly as possible. With ezTaxReturn, you can file your federal and state returns in as little as 30 minutes, so it won’t take much time out of your busy schedule. The sooner you file, the sooner you can move on and focus on your other goals.
Understanding Stress and Its Impact
What is Stress?
Stress is a natural response to situations that feel overwhelming or difficult to manage. It’s a common feeling, especially during tax season, but knowing how to handle stress can make a huge difference in your well-being.
How Stress Affects Your Everyday Life
Stress can affect not only your mental and emotional health but also your physical health. It can manifest in headaches, fatigue, anxiety, and irritability, making everyday tasks harder to handle. However, by proactively preparing for tax season, you can avoid adding unnecessary stress to your life.
Maintaining Physical and Mental Health
Healthy Habits for Tax Season
To maintain your physical and mental health during tax season, it’s important to practice self-care. Here are some ways to keep stress in check:
- Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as exercise, meditation, or reading.
- Eat a healthy diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help manage stress and stay focused.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body and mind recharge.
- Take breaks: Take short breaks throughout the day to stretch, move your body, and rest your mind.
- Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to manage stress.
- Engage in physical activity: Incorporate various forms of movement like walking or dancing to enhance your mood and energy levels.
By incorporating these healthy habits into your daily routine, you can reduce stress and improve your overall physical and mental health during tax season.
Make This Tax Season Stress-Free
Get organized early, follow these steps, and let ezTaxReturn guide you through the process. By filing your taxes early and staying on top of things, you can reduce stress and enjoy a more peaceful, worry-free tax season. Remember, filing doesn’t have to be a headache – with the right tools, you can file your taxes fast, easy, and stress-free. Start today with ezTaxReturn!
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
