If you've been unemployed all year, the best tip I can offer is not to pay any taxes. Otherwise, your taxes should be just as easy to file as anyone else's. The best place to begin is at www.irs.gov. The IRS website offers links to online tax preparation software that will prepare your federal tax return for free. The software works by asking a series of questions regarding your personal financial situation. You will then be prompted to complete the necessary forms and worksheet based on the information you provide. The site and software are helpful and informative, and cost NO MONEY, though if you would like your state taxes prepared there is a small fee. Following the submission of your tax forms, you may print out the information completely, submit the forms to the IRS, and receive a refund via direct deposit to the bank account of your choice. The write offs you will receive when unemployed should be the same you would receive if you were employed full time.