Visit IRS.gov Website Throughout the Year To Minimize Your Tax Time Stress

Editor's Note: The following is a news release that was issued by the Internal Revenue Service.

The IRS Web site – www.irs.gov  – makes it easy to get an answer to a tax question, anytime during the year.  The site is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Whether you need a tax form, a publication or have tax questions, IRS.gov has a wealth of information.

“Taxpayers are encouraged to periodically check out the IRS.gov website for the latest tax news, tax tips and tax related information,” said Gregg Semanick, IRS Spokesperson.  “Here are several reasons to visit IRS.gov this summer.”

Get information on federal tax law changes and existing tax laws including summertime tax tips available during July and August. 

Calculate the right amount of withholding allowances on a Form W-4. The automated IRS Withholding Calculator helps ensure that the appropriate amount of income tax is withheld from pay. Click on “IRS Withholding Calculator” on the “Individuals” page.  With the help of current pay stubs and a copy of last year’s tax form, users can check to see if they are withholding the right amount.  Information from this calculator can then be used to revise a W-4.

Search for charities. Search IRS Publication 78, Cumulative List of Organizations, to find out if your contributions to an organization are tax deductible.  Information is available in the Charities & Non-Profits section of the website.

Find out all about electronic filing.  Taxpayers can still e-file their 2010 federal income tax returns through October 17, 2010.  E-file is safe, fast, and easy; and, there are free options for all filers.  Over 3 million New Jersey filers have e-filed their 2010 federal income tax returns.

Request a payment agreement. Paying taxes in full and on time avoids unnecessary penalties and interest. However, if unable to pay the balance in full taxpayers may be eligible to use the Online Payment Agreement Application to request an installment agreement.

Get help in difficult financial times.  Events such as a job loss, debt forgiveness or tapping into a retirement fund can have a tax impact. Find answers to these questions on the IRS website.

Get tax forms and publications.  Forms and publications can be accessed, viewed and downloaded.

Get information about careers at the IRS.  The IRS offers a variety of full-time career or seasonal job opportunities.

Remember that for the genuine IRS Web site be sure to use .gov.  Don't be confused by internet sites that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations instead of .gov. The address of the official IRS governmental Web site is www.irs.gov.