Electronic filing, direct deposit will get your tax refund to you sooner

Tax filing tips from the IRS

Some tips from the Internal Revenue Service as the tax filing season begins:

—Gather the documents you need to file your returns, including W-2 and 1099 forms and receipts and canceled checks for any deductions or credits you may claim.

—Consider how you will fill out your tax forms. Will you do it yourself, use tax preparation software, go to a professional tax preparer, or seek help at an IRS office or volunteer site?

—Check and double-check your return for mistakes.

—Check out the tax resources on www.irs.gov. The IRS specifically points to Publication 17, which it says is “a comprehensive collection of information for taxpayers highlighting everything you’ll need to know when filing your return.” IRS customer service can be reached by phone at 800-829-1040.

—File electronically and use direct deposit. You’ll get your refund sooner. If your income is $57,000 or less, you may be eligible for Free File, an IRS partnership with 20 tax software companies that provides free tax preparation software and electronic filing.