How to do your own taxes?

Last year's federal return was nearly 100 pages. It's not worth it for me to try to figure it out on my own.

Either by hand on the IRS forms, or use software.

Free file software on the internet. Look on www.irs.gov for providers.

I buy the personal software every year.

Very simple.. just get on one of tax sites & fill out the info it asks for. Make sure you answer all questions accurately.

It's actually pretty simple. Just wait until you receive all your documents in the mail (from employers and any investments you may have) then go to irs.gov. They can give you a list of websites that you can file for free. It tells you what information to put in each line. You can also file your state taxes for free on your state's website.

If you have had them done by someone else in the past, look at your old tax return. Find the corresponding numbers for this year, and the corresponding places on this year's form.

If you have never done taxes before, read the instructions for form 1040. The W2 that you received from your employer should also have instructions that help you find where to put the numbers.

I use my software

OK

Go to irs.gov and download the 1040 instruction book. If reading it makes sense, then fill out a tax return and file.

If it doesn't, seek help from volunteers, professionals or friends who know what they are doing.