This article was published by the IRS.

The Internal Revenue Service has provided taxpayers with six tips to make filing their 2024 tax return easier.

Most of the information below is also available on the IRS.gov Let us help you page. Taxpayers should follow these handy suggestions as they prepare to file:

1. Gather all important and necessary tax paperwork and records needed for filing a complete and accurate tax return. Errors and omissions can lead to missing a deduction or credit and slow down tax return processing and refunds.

Before filing , taxpayers should have their:

- Social Security numbers for everyone listed on the tax return.

- Bank account and routing numbers.

- Tax forms such as W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, records of digital asset transactions and other income documents.

- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace statement.

- IRS letters they may have citing an amount received for a certain tax deduction or credit.

2. Report all types of income on the tax return to avoid receiving a notice or a bill from the IRS. Include income from:

- Goods created and sold on online platforms.

- Investment income.

- Part-time or seasonal work.

- Self-employment or other business activities.

- Services provided and paid through mobile apps.

3. Avoid paper returns. Filing electronically with direct deposit is the fastest way to get a refund. Plus, tax software helps taxpayers avoid mistakes. It does the math and guides people through each section of their tax return.

4. Choose tax filing options based on personal situation and comfort level with tax preparation.

- Personally file taxes.

- Use online filing services.

- Hire a tax professional and choose carefully. Most tax return preparers are professional, honest and provide excellent service to their clients. However, dishonest tax return preparers who file false income tax returns do exist. The IRS has a Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications and more on choosing a tax pro on IRS.gov.

5. Use online resources at IRS.gov to quickly get answers to tax questions, check a refund status, or pay taxes. There’s no wait time or appointment needed. Online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day, including the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let us help you resources, which are especially helpful.