by Suzanne Mathews

Created on: January 03, 2010   Last Updated: March 02, 2010

Tax return forms can be intimidating and confusing. Using a tax guide can provide taxpayers a better understanding as to which form or forms should be used as well as knowing what information is needed to complete the tax return.  Moreover, having an understanding how the information is processed will help the taxpayer recognize possible errors before the tax return is filed with the

Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

To file a tax return, taxpayers will need to file one of the following forms 1040EZ, 1040A, or 1040. Each tax return form has specific guidelines that must apply before they can be used by the taxpayer. For instance, a 1040EZ or short form is used by taxpayers who are not claiming any dependents. Whereas, using the tax form 1040A, the taxpayers cannot itemize their deductions. The 1040 tax form is the most common tax return form used by taxpayers. Using tax form 1040, the taxpayer can report all types of income, deductions, credits, and claim dependents. Regardless the tax form used, the tax return must be filed by April 15. If additional time is needed to prepare a return the taxpayers must file with the IRS an automatic extension tax form 4868 and have until October 15 to file their tax returns.

The information complied on the tax return form is used to inform the IRS of all income or wages received during a prior calendar year as well as any changes within the household.  The tax return form is divided into sections; each section has a series of questions. For the purpose of this article, we will review tax return form 1040.

*Section one: Address and Social Security Numbers  

The first section of the return is like an introduction, starting with the first and last name of the primary filer and if married the spouses name followed by the taxpayer’s mailing address, Social Security number and if married the spouse’s Social Security number. In addition, the tax payer has the option to make a contribution to a Presidential campaign fund.

*Section two: Filing Status

To indicate the filing status the taxpayer must select one of the following, single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualified widower.  The filing status the taxpayer selects will help determine the standard deduction. For example, single or married filing separately filing status qualifies the taxpayer to $5,700 tax deduction. Whereas married filing jointly or qualifying widower filing status

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