Mason City, IA - If you haven't done your taxes yet you're not alone. There are thousands of Americans in the same boat.
Whether you doing it the old fashion way or E-filing, procrastinating on your taxes can cost you. Experts say the fastest and easiest way to get your taxes in on time is different for everyone.
The clock is ticking: you're last chance to get your taxes in is just hours away. But don't worry, you're not out of options yet.
"Turbo Tax is a really easy way to do your taxes at home," said Justin Holze a Customer Experience Coordinator at Best Buy.
Holze said Turbo Tax is the most popular option for a good reason.
"The program is just walking you through it, which makes the whole process really easy," he explained.
Holze said the typical tax filing procrastinator will benefit from Turbo Tax Deluxe for Federal and State. For software like that you'll spend $20 to $90, spend at least 30 minutes on your computer, and the programs could leave most people moderately frustrated.
If you go to a tax preparer the cost goes up but your frustration will be minimal. Expect to spend at least $75 if not more, but even if you file last minute, it'll only take about an hour. H&R Block is were we ran into fellow procrastinator Dean Miller.
"I just started a small business and as far as itemizing, I wasn't sure what exactly to do, so I knew H&R Block could take care of it," he said.
Tax preparation isn't just a good idea for Miller, Martha Cruzof H&R Block said "it's perfect for everyone especially at the last minute."
"On your own, if you make a mistake, it can cost you thousands," said Cruz.
If you want to save a lot of green try free filing. The IRS website, http://www.irs.gov/index.html, offers a list of free filers the challenge is qualifying. For most you have to be under 25 years old and make less than $50,000 a year. You also have to find a reputable free filer, making it free, but highly frustrating.
Of course there's still the old fashion way. If you aren't computer savvy this is probably your best bet. It costs most people less then a dollar if you send it First Class at the Post Office. Because most people have done it by paper, it's usually quick and the frustration is minimal. No matter what you choose it'll end up costing you in the end, one way or another.
Remember if you don't usually file or aren't planning to do so this year, experts say you still should. A majority of Americans qualify for the economic stimulus check. It could put anywhere from $600 to thousands in your pocket.
If you're mailing your taxes in Tuesday, early is better, earlier in the day that is. The Mason City Post Office says you can beat the rush by coming in the morning. If you don't make it by the closing time of 5 p.m., you still have until midnight to use the Automated Postal Center, in the lobby. The Post Master said he doesn't expect the crowd to be too bad, no matter what time of day. With the popularity of E-filing he said most people don't need to mail their state and federal taxes.
Don't forget to make copies of your taxes before you mail them in. Staples stores across the country will offer free copying Tuesday. You can copy up to 20 pages of tax forms free from 7-9 p.m.
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