If you haven’t filed your 2008 tax return, haven’t paid your your taxes owed, or are requesting an extension of time for filing, the IRS has issued last minute tax tips that can help you in these final hours.

Knowing how to get tax help and learning about options that are available to you as a taxpayer can save you time, money and frustration in the long run. For instance, if you miss the April 15 deadline, know that you may face additional interest and penalties-  so consider e-filing your return to save money. You can also receive an automatic six-month extension by filing Form 4868 - however, the extension does not grant your more time for the payment of taxes owed.

Additionally, if you owe $25,000 or less, you may apply for an installment agreement to pay taxes on a monthly basis. While the IRS charges a fee for setting up the agreement, as well as interest and penalties on amounts that continue to remain unpaid after each monthly payment - the IRS will not take enforced collection action, including the levy of bank accounts or wages once a payment plan is established. To qualify for an IRS installment agreement, all prior tax returns must be filed.

Here are the 10 last minute tax tips from the IRS.

1. File Electronically - Consider filing electronically instead of using paper tax forms. If you file electronically and choose direct deposit, you can receive your refund in as few as 10 days.
2. Check the Identification Numbers - When filing a paper return carefully check the identification numbers — usually Social Security numbers — for each person listed. This includes you, your spouse, dependents and persons listed in relation to claims for the Child and Dependent Care Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit. Missing, incorrect or illegible Social Security Numbers can delay or reduce a tax refund.
3. Double-Check Your Figures - If you are filing a paper return, you should double-check that you have correctly figured the refund or balance due.
4. Check the Tax Tables - If you are filing using the Free File Fillable Forms or a paper return you should double-check that you have used the right figure from the tax table.
5. Sign your form - Taxpayers must sign and date their returns. Both spouses must sign a joint return, even if only one had income. Anyone paid to prepare a return must also sign it.
6. Mailing Your Return - Use the coded envelope included with your tax package to mail your return. If you did not receive an envelope, check the section called “Where Do You File?” in the tax instruction booklet.
7. Mailing a Payment - People sending a payment should make the check out to “United States Treasury” and should enclose it with, but not attach it to the tax return or the Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, if used. The check should include the taxpayer’s Social Security number, daytime phone number, the tax year and the type of form filed.
8. Electronic Payments - Electronic payment options are convenient, safe and secure methods for paying taxes. You can authorize an electronic funds withdrawal, or use a credit card or a debit card. For more information on electronic payment options, visit IRS.gov.
9. Extension to File - By the April due date, taxpayers should either file a return or request an extension of time to file. Remember, the extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.
10. IRS.gov - Forms and publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects are available around the clock on the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.

**If you have unfiled tax returns or need income tax relief, our specialized staff of attorneys, CPAs, EAs and tax professionals can help. Visit the Tax Resolution Services web site for a free tax relief consultation or call us at 866-IRS-PROBLEMS.

More Tax Help, IRS News and Tax Relief Tips:

1. Options for Business Owners Struggling to Meet the April 15 Tax Deadline
2. IRS Announces Unprecedented Opportunity for Recession-Burdened Americans to Settle Outstanding Tax Debts
3. How to Negotiate an IRS Installment Agreement and Set Up a Payment Plan for Your Tax Debt
4. What the IRS May Not Tell You About Payment Plans
5. Last Minute Advice For Recession-Burdened Taxpayers Who Can’t Afford to Pay Taxes and Want to Avoid IRS Penalties

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