Tax fraud continues to be a widespread issue with no end in sight. In 2021, there were nearly 90,000 cases of tax fraud linked to identity theft, according to the Federal Trade Commission. And as consumer fraud is costing Americans billions each year, it’s vital your tax return is filed securely to ensure your personal information and tax refund don’t fall into the wrong hands.
So as you collect your tax documents and complete your tax return before the Apr. 18 deadline, consider using one of these secure and expedited platforms to submit your taxes to the IRS.
Three ways to securely file your taxes this year
Before you start filing your taxes, the first step is to collect your tax forms so you aren’t scrambling once you start the process. A comprehensive list of documents you’ll need is available from the IRS, but here are the most pertinent documents and information you’ll need:
- Your social security number or tax ID number, along with your spouse’s information
- Any employment and/or investment income documents in 2021 such as a W2 or 1099
- Forms for deductions such as mortgage interest, student loan interest, charitable donations or education costs
- Any forms regarding stimulus payments issued to you
- Your bank account routing and account number to receive your refund by direct deposit
Once you have the information needed, ensuring your tax return doesn’t fall into the wrong hands is the next step. Here’s where you can securely (and quickly) file your taxes this year.
1. Free through the IRS website
The IRS Free File program provides an online service for Americans to prepare and file their tax return from their laptop or smart phone.
IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in a statement that, “IRS Free File offers taxpayers an easy, free way to do their taxes from the safety of their own home. Free File also provides electronic filing with direct deposit, which is the best way to avoid delays and receive refunds quickly and securely.”
To qualify for the program, your adjusted gross income (AGI) must have been less than $73,000 in 2021.
There are several different partners serving different tax situations and incomes that participate in the Free File program, so be sure to select from this list here. At the time of publishing, there are eight partner offers with varying eligibility requirements such as state of residency, age and income on the IRS site.
