Tax Filings Down Almost 6%, IRS Says

The number of federal tax return filings in Orange County is down almost 6% compared to the same period last year, according to the Internal Revenue Service.

“More than half the 1.2 million tax returns for Orange County residents have not been filed,” said Jesse Cota, director of the IRS’ Laguna Niguel district.

“Waiting until the last minute to prepare your tax return increases the chances of making mistakes,” Cota said.

“People get in a hurry and make math errors, put entries on the wrong lines or find they don’t have all the necessary tax forms to file their return.”

IRS officials suggest taxpayers file a return on time even if they do not have enough money right now and recommend they pay what they can. The balance may be paid in monthly installments.

To request a monthly payment plan, attach Form 9465, “Request for Installment Agreement,” to the front of your tax return. Indicate on the form how much you can pay each month.

Taxpayers may have to pay penalties if they file after the April 15 deadline. Unless a four-month extension request is filed, a taxpayer could be charged a late filing penalty of as much as 25% of the tax owed.

“A common mistake people make when they file an extension is they assume the extension gives them extra time to pay the taxes,” Cota said. “The extension is only an extension of time to file the tax return.”

Individuals having difficulty completing tax forms can obtain free assistance from the IRS.

For more information, call the IRS at (800) 829-1040.