IRS begins accepting returns

The tax filing period is underway. (Photo by kenteegardin/flickr)

By Jim Anderson/Illinois Radio Network

CHICAGO – Income tax season starts Tuesday.
 
Today is the day the IRS will start accepting returns. Rick Mehall, a certified public accountant and partner in the firm Guthoff, Mehall, Allen & Co. in Bloomington, said if you’re expecting a refund, it’s wise to file as soon as possible, though many taxpayers don’t yet have in hand all the documentation they need to file.
 
“Most people probably won’t be getting everything they need until late January or early February, just because 1099s from the banks and savings and loans and credit unions are not due out until Jan. 31,” he said.

Mehall also warned against tax-related scams the IRS won't call you on the phone, tell you that you owe taxes and accept a credit card over the phone.

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