How soon can I file my 2008 taxes?

You can prepare them right now, but the IRS will not accept returns until jan 16, 2009 for the year 2008.

You can file them as soon as you have all the paperwork in hand. Here is a list of what you will need, if applicable (from JacksonHewitt.com):

Social Security Card(s)

Driver’s License(s)

Dependents’ Social Security Numbers & Dates of Birth

Last Year's Federal and State Tax Returns

Wage Statements - Form W-2

Pension or Retirement Income - Form 1099-R

Interest and Dividend Income - Form 1099-INT/Form 1099-DIV

State Income Tax Refund Amount - Form 1099-G

Social Security Income - Form SSA-1099

Unemployment Income - Form 1099-G

Commissions Received/Paid

Information on Sales of Stocks or Bonds - Form 1099-B

Self-Employed Business/Farm Income & Expenses - Form 1099-MISC

Lottery or Gambling Winnings - Form W-2G

Lottery or Gambling Losses

Income and Expenses From Rentals

Income from Partnerships, S Corporations, Trusts, and Estates - Schedule K-1

IRA Contributions

Alimony Paid or Received

Child Care Expenses & Provider Information

Medical, Eye Care, and Dental Expenses

Cash and Noncash Charitable Donations (Maximize this deduction at Jackson Hewitt)

Record of Purchase or Sale of Residence

Mortgage or Home Equity Loan Interest Paid - Form 1098

Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes Paid

State or Local Sales Taxes Paid

Unreimbursed Employment-Related Expenses

Job-Related Educational Expenses

Tuition and Education Fees - Form 1098-T

Student Loan Interest - Form 1098-E

Casualty or Theft Losses

Estimated Taxes

Foreign Taxes Paid

After you have received all the necessary forms, you are ready!

As soon as you get all your 2008 tax filing papers together (w-2 form(s); interest forms; and other forms that pertain to your tax situation. The IRS usually has forms available by mid January, or earlier through the website irs.gov.

As soon as 2008 is over! But often you need your w2, 1099INT,1099DIV, etc. to complete your your filing needs.

No, rush!

As soon as you have all the information needed on the form. Withholding info, taxes, etc.

It also depends on whether the web sites are up and running for online filing or whether the forms are out yet.

As soon as you have your W2's.

The IRS will start accepting electronically filed returns on 1/16/09.

12:01 am January 1st, 2009.

january 1st. you can use your last paystubs to file your taxes if you don't have your w-2 forms yet.

January 1st through April 15th.