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  • When is the tax filing deadline?
    Federal Deadline: Typically, the federal tax filing deadline is April 15. If it falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline may be extended. For the most current information, refer to the IRS website. Ohio State Deadline: Ohio's state tax filing deadline usually aligns with the federal deadline. For specific dates and any extensions, consult the Ohio Department of Taxation.
  • What happens if I miss the tax filing deadline?
    Federal Taxes: Failing to file or pay on time may result in penalties and interest. The IRS provides guidance on penalties for late filing and payment. Ohio State Taxes: Similar penalties and interest may apply for late filing or payment in Ohio. Details are available on the Ohio Department of Taxation's website.
  • Can I file an extension, and how does it work?
    Federal Extension: You can request a six-month extension by filing Form 4868 by the original due date. This extends the filing deadline but not the payment deadline. More information is available on the IRS website. Ohio State Extension: Ohio grants an automatic six-month extension if you have a federal extension. However, any tax owed must still be paid by the original deadline. Refer to the Ohio Department of Taxation for details.
  • How do I check the status of my tax refund?
    Federal Refund: Use the IRS Where's My Refund? tool to check your refund status. Ohio State Refund: Check the status of your Ohio state refund through the Ohio Department of Taxation's Check My Refund Status service.
  • What is the difference between a tax credit and a tax deduction?
    Tax Credit: A tax credit directly reduces the amount of tax you owe, dollar for dollar. Tax Deduction: A tax deduction reduces your taxable income, which can lower your overall tax liability. The IRS provides detailed explanations of credits and deductions.
  • What documents do I need to file my taxes?
    Common documents include W-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest statements, and records of deductible expenses. The IRS offers a checklist to help you prepare.
  • Can I file my taxes electronically, and is it secure?
    Yes, the IRS and the Ohio Department of Taxation offer secure e-filing options. E-filing is safe, efficient, and can expedite your refund. Learn more about federal e-filing and Ohio's e-filing services.
  • How long should I keep my tax records?
    The IRS recommends keeping records for at least three years, but certain situations may require longer retention. Refer to the IRS guidelines for specifics.
  • Do I need to pay estimated taxes, and how do I calculate them?
    If you expect to owe at least $1,000 in tax for the current year after withholding and credits, you may need to pay estimated taxes. The IRS offers guidance on estimated tax payments.
  • What deductions or credits can I claim as an individual?
    Eligible deductions and credits vary based on individual circumstances. Common ones include the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and deductions for student loan interest. The IRS provides a comprehensive list of credits and deductions.
  • Do I need to file taxes if I’m a student or part-time worker?
    Filing requirements depend on your income, filing status, and other factors. The IRS Interactive Tax Assistant can help determine if you need to file.
  • Are unemployment benefits taxable?
    Yes, unemployment compensation is generally taxable. The IRS offers information on how to report these benefits.
  • How do I handle taxes if I have multiple sources of income?
    All income must be reported, regardless of the source. This includes wages, freelance earnings, and investment income. The IRS provides guidance on reporting multiple income sources.
  • Can I deduct medical expenses on my taxes?
    You may deduct qualified medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income if you itemize deductions. Details are available on the IRS website.
  • How do I file taxes if I got married or divorced this year?
    Your marital status as of December 31 determines your filing status for the entire year. The IRS provides information on choosing the correct filing status.
  • What tax benefits are available for homeowners?
    Homeowners may be eligible for deductions on mortgage interest, property taxes, and certain home improvements. The IRS offers a guide on tax information for homeowners.
  • What expenses can I deduct as a small business owner?
    Deductible business expenses must be both ordinary (common in your trade) and necessary (helpful for your business). Examples include rent, utilities, office supplies, and employee wages. See the IRS Business Expenses Guide for details.
  • What is self-employment tax, and how is it calculated?
    Self-employment tax covers Social Security and Medicare contributions. It's calculated on 92.35% of net earnings using Schedule SE (Form 1040). Learn more at the IRS Self-Employment Tax Guide.
  • Can I deduct my home office expenses?
    Yes, if you use part of your home exclusively and regularly for business. Use Form 8829 to calculate the deduction. Details are available in the IRS Home Office Deduction Guide.
  • What is the difference between an employee and an independent contractor for tax purposes?
    Employees are subject to payroll taxes, while independent contractors are responsible for their own self-employment taxes. See the IRS Independent Contractor or Employee guide for classification rules.
  • What are the tax implications of hiring employees?
    Employers must withhold income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare taxes, and pay unemployment taxes. Learn more in the IRS Employer's Tax Guide.
  • Do I need a 1099 form for contractors I hire?
    Yes, if you pay $600 or more to a contractor in a year. Use Form 1099-NEC to report payments. For details, see the IRS Form 1099-NEC Instructions.
  • Tax filing deadline for Partnerships and S-Corps
    A sole proprietor's Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Business (Sole Proprietorship) and an individual farmer's Schedule F (Form 1040), Profit or Loss From Farming are attached to Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return or Form 1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors. Therefore, the due date is the 15th day of the fourth month following the end of the tax year. This date is April 15 for calendar year taxpayers. Most partnerships use the calendar year, but other tax years are permitted. The partnership tax return is generally due by the 15th day of the third month following the end of the tax year. See the Instructions for Form 1065, U.S. Return of Partnership Income. Most S corporations use the calendar year, but other tax years are permitted. The due date is the 15th day of the third month following the end of the tax year. See the Instructions for Form 1120-S, U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation. A corporation that's not an S corporation may use either the calendar year or a fiscal tax year. The corporate tax return is generally due by the 15th day of the fourth month following the end of the corporation's tax year. However, a corporation with a fiscal tax year ending June 30 must file by the 15th day of the third month after the end of its tax year. See the Instructions for Form 1120, U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return for due dates and exceptions to due dates.
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