This story is part Taxes 2023CNET’s coverage of the best tax software, tax tips, and everything you need to file and track your refund.
The 2023 tax season is in full swing: the IRS reports it has received nearly 29 million federal returns and issued more than 13 million refunds since it began accepting tax returns on January 23.
Although the best tax software can help enormously, declaring your taxes is not easy. Tax rules vary from year to year and person to person, depending on your filing status, age, income and other factors.
If you’re having trouble getting started with your taxes or are stuck halfway through, check out our list of tips and instructions to find the answers you need. Here you’ll find resources to help you prepare your return and expert advice on tricky tax topics.
Do your taxes, get your tax refund and get on with your life.
How to start with your taxes
As with most tasks, the hardest part of doing your taxes is getting started. You need to gather all your necessary forms (and find the missing ones), choose a service or software to use, and then spend hours filling out your return.
No wonder nearly a third of Americans are waiting until the last minute to file, according to a financial services firm IPX1031 survey. But there are good reasons to file as soon as possible.
Here is some information to help you get started on your tax return:
Form, forms and more forms
There are lots of tax documents: There’s the W-2 that your company sends you, an assortment of 1099 forms for other income, a 1098 form for mortgage interest, and many more.
In total, the IRS provides 2,731 different tax forms on its website. Find out which ones you need in 2023 and what to do if you miss them.
Review tax credits and tax deductions
Once you’ve started your 2022 tax return, make sure you get every penny you’re owed. One way to maximize your tax refund is to check out all potential tax credits and deductions that could lower your tax bill.
Learn the basics of the deduction breakdown (or standard deduction) and review all the ways to pay less or get a bigger refund.
All about tax refunds
Once you have completed your 2022 tax return and sent it to the IRS, the wait begins. Fortunately, the IRS makes it easy to track your return and refund.
Find out how to track your tax refund whether it’s directly deposited or mailed as a paper check, plus other tips for getting your money quickly and securely.
Answers to specific tax questions in 2023
Everyone’s financial situation is unique, but there are a number of common dilemmas that upset even the most diligent taxpayer.
Here are some of the most common tax questions for 2023:
How to get help with your taxes
If you can’t find the tax answers you need yourself, don’t despair. There are free resources that can help you complete and file your tax return.
Good luck in filing your return. Don’t forget to check back as we often update this list with more tax explanations and tips for 2023.