It is no secret that tax season is a stressful time. Everyone is trying to figure out if they should do their taxes themselves, or if they should take their taxes into an accountant. Taking your taxes into an accountant is a great way to go, because they have the skills and experience necessary to correctly file your taxes. However, even if you take your taxes into an accountant, there are still things that you should do to prepare for filing them. This article will discuss 3 great tips for filing your taxes. 

Start Early

Since accountants seem to fill up rather quickly with appointments during tax season, it is best to get started as soon as you receive all of the appropriate documentation. In fact, you can even contact your accountant before you have all of your documentation, just to make sure that they will have openings for you when the time comes. Doing this will not only reduce your stress level because your taxes will be done on time, but you will also be able to save money because you won't have to pay any late fees. 

Gather All Documentation and Information Necessary

Since you don't want to be that person that sits down with your accountant only to find out that you are missing half of the documents that you need, it is crucial that you gather all of these documents beforehand. Be sure that you have gathered all of your W2 forms, other tax forms that you may have, as well as any personal documents that you may need to bring to verify who you are. If you happen to be self employed, be sure to gather receipts and other information to show the expenses that have gone into your business, as well as any other documentation your accountant may have requested.

Check To See If You Qualify For Free Tax Services

If you happen to make under a certain amount each year, then there is a good possibility that you qualify for free tax filing services. This is offered through the government, and it allows those who can't afford it to get their taxes filed.  If you think that you may qualify, then you can contact your local government service agency to find out more information. If you find out that you do qualify, it is important to sign up for this service right away because spots will likely fill very quickly. 

Reach out to a local firm, like Bauer & Associates LTD, for more details on tax filing tips.