SOB! Today *IS* Tax Day

Well, we all got a reprieve, but today is Tax Day. Tax forms must be eFiled or mailed today in order to avoid penalties (or you must apply for an automatic extension). But the good news is plenty of experts have tips to help you get the most back from the tax man. And even if you are filing last-minute, there are always online options to avoid the lines at the post office.

Dee Leicht E.A. preparer at H & R Block at 4530 Lemay Ferry Road suggests:

- If you are preparing your own taxes, make sure that you file Schedule M, Making Work Pay, to receive up to a $400 credit.
- Check your deductions for education. They are very good this year and include books and supplies.
- Make sure you take exemptions for any persons (earning less than $3600) that you supported in 2010.

And remember, even if you do file for the automatic extension, you still have to pay what you EXPECT to owe to avoid paying interest and penalties.

Surprise! Today is NOT Tax Day

Somehow I missed this until yesterday, but taxes are NOT due April 15 this year. They are due Monday, April 18. So, if you've not already filed or eFiled or requested an extension, you have a few more days before panic has to REALLY set in.

And if you want to start NOW, don't forget many options to fill out your taxes online!

"Happy" Tax Day

Today is "Tax Deadline Day" in America - the day when tax payments are due to the IRS and state taxation agencies. Hopefully, wise Mod-Blog readers have already filed, but if not, there is hope. The Federal government provides links to a number of free online tax preparation tools.

And if you need help staying awake thru the "excitement" of filling out endless forms, Starbucks is offering tax filers free coffee today. So, the day might not be a complete loss.

Do as I say, not as I do

Tax Day Cometh

Today is the day that the Federal and State governmentds demand their pound of flesh. They are saying that the economic downturn is causing more taxpayers than ever to be delinquent, but if you have the money to pay, you are better off paying your taxes now or at least filing for an automatic extension. If you have not yet paid and need help figuring out your burden, remember that Intuit offers a free TurboTax edition online for those with simple returns.

NY Introduces "iPod Tax"

Proving yet again the problems with trusting un-elected officials in office, NY Governor David Patterson has introduced a huge set of new taxes in his 2009 budget, including a so-called iPod tax.

Trying to close a $15.4 billion budget gap, Paterson called for 88 new fees and a host of other taxes, including an "iPod tax" that taxes the sale of downloaded music and other "digitally delivered entertainment services."

One can only assume the Governor has not been paying attention to Apple's stance on such taxation in the past. If the governor expects Apple to collect this tax, he may be surprised and simply see Apple stop doing business with all IP addresses in the State. We'll see if New Yorkers stand for this first-of-its-kind special tax on their music.

Not ready for Tax Time?

I plan to break out the trusty TurboTax later today, but if you are stuck without the ability to complete your taxes by Tuesday, don't forget the option of an automatic extension to October 15. You are still required to PAY by April 15, but if you are someone who was only expecting a refund, that is not a problem. Also be aware that an extension will delay your stimulus check.