Tax Season Survival Guide: Getting the Most from the IRS

Maybe your problem is that you don't know what form to file. Come to think of it, did you even get a tax package this year? Why aren't there any forms at the post office? Your W-2 or 1099 form might not have come yet, and there's no way of getting a hold of your boss, so how can you report your income to the IRS? Maybe your snake of an ex-spouse claimed the children on his tax return, and you have custody - now you can't claim them on your return. Who exactly do you call when you have these sorts of problems and questions regarding your taxes this season?

There's so many numbers to tons of different IRS departments, and all those automated computer prompts and hold time can steal precious time and provoke frustrations. As a taxpayer and a sometimes telephone agent, I'd like to share some hints that may help find the solution to your tax-related inquiries a little less painful.

Why Haven't My Forms Been Mailed To Me?

For Individual Income Tax Returns, (1040, 1040 EZ, and 1040 A)

During the 2007 tax season, there are four reasons why you may not have received your tax return forms for your personal federal taxes:

1. You Moved During 2007