Master Tax Season Like a Pro!

Navigating Tax Season with Confidence

Tax season is in full swing, and for many, it brings a familiar mix of paperwork and a looming sense of confusion. But filing your taxes doesn’t have to feel like solving a high-stakes puzzle without the box lid. Whether you are a first-time filer or a seasoned veteran, getting your finances in order is simpler than you think when you have the right roadmap.

This newsletter recaps the essential tips from our recent Quarterly Member Financial Education Webinar: Tax Basics, hosted by The Community Impact Fund. Presented by Bernard Saavedra, Senior Financial Coach at TrustPlus, these insights are designed to help you navigate the fundamentals with ease.

Missed the live session? You can view the webinar in full here or click here to view the slide deck.

If you’re short on time, use the “Jump to” links below to go directly to specific segments. 

 Important Dates to Remember

Jump to the Important Dates (7:35)

April 15th, 2026: The last day to file on time.

April 15th, 2026: The deadline to request an extension (extending your filing date to October 15th, 2026).

Gather Your Forms Before Filing

Jump to the Document Checklist (8:20)

Be prepared by visiting the IRS guide to gathering your documents.

Tax Filing Resources

Jump to Filing Resources (17:49)

FreeTaxUSA www.freetaxusa.com Free to file a simple federal return, $16 for a state return.

GetYourRefund www.getyourrefund.org Free filing for multiple years with an IRS-certified volunteer for filers earning less than $67K a year.

MyFreeTaxes https://myfreetaxes.com/ Free filing using self-preparation software for filers earning less than $89K a year.

Turbotax turbotax.intuit.com Free to file for Simple Form 1040 returns.

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) sites offer free tax help for:

People who generally make $69,000 or less, persons with disabilities; and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

Some VITA sites are able to help with self-employment income. Find your closest VITA site here.

Filing While Self-Employed

Jump to Self-Employment Tips (14:21)

Self-employment requires extra forms and specific responsibilities. For more details, visit the IRS Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center.

If You Need an Extension…

Jump to Extension Instructions (21:59)

If you can’t file on time, you have options. Learn how to request an extension before the April deadline.

What to do if You Can’t Pay

Jump to Payment Options (28:23)

File timely to avoid late-filing penalties and interest.

Pay what you can by the filing deadline.

Check out IRS payment options or read this guide on what to do if you can’t pay.

Avoid Scams

Jump to Steer Clear of Scams (32:40)

Scams often involve impersonators acting as IRS agents or debt collectors. Remember: The IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media. They will always contact you via mail first.

Learn how to recognize and report tax scams.