With the calendar changing to April, the federal tax deadline looms in less than two weeks. Despite the short time frame remaining, you can still file without incurring any penalties from Uncle Sam. Terri Bain with H&R Block in Sigourney, Washington and Columbus Junction tells KCII news that you will want to make sure that you have your documents together before meeting with a tax preparer to streamline the process. Things like your current photo ID, W2s, 1099s, home mortgage interest information from your bank and specific to this year, your IRS documentation regarding stimulus and advanced child tax credit payments are all necessary to file. Bain talked about any differences between in-person and E-filing through H&R Block and refund timing so far this year experienced by those who have already filed. “We’re going to do the same tax return regardless (of if they choose online or in-person). It’s just a comfort level of the individual. We want to accommodate everyone. We are set up to do video appointments, over the phone, we need to get your documentation, whether you email it to us, drop it off at the office or bring it with you to your appointment. We’re going to do the return. If you have questions, we’ll call you, email you, or talk to you face-to-face. We’re in the same situation (for return timing) and we know it’s frustrating. We do recommend that people go on IRS.gov, the online services account and check the status of your return. Take a little time to get it set up. Have patience. Everyone is in the same boat.”

Federal deadline for filing 2021 income taxes is set for Monday, April 18th and the Iowa state tax deadline is Monday, May 2nd.