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Frequently asked questions
General
- 01For most Americans, the federal tax filing deadline is April 15 each year. If that date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline may shift to the next business day. You can also file for a six-month extension (until October 15), but remember — it’s an extension to file, not to pay. Any taxes owed are still due by the April deadline to avoid penalties or interest.
- 02You’ll want to gather: All income forms (W-2s, 1099s, etc.) Identification (your driver’s license or state ID, and Social Security cards for everyone listed on the return) Proof of deductible expenses (mortgage interest, medical bills, donations, childcare, etc.) Bank account information for direct deposit Any IRS letters or prior-year tax returns Having everything ready helps ensure accuracy and saves time during your appointment.
- 03Absolutely. Our team assists clients with IRS letters, payment plans, penalty relief, and prior-year amendments. Sometimes a letter is just a request for clarification — but it’s important not to ignore it. We’ll review the notice, explain what it means in plain English, and guide you through your next steps to resolve it quickly and confidently.
- 04Yes! We regularly help clients who are behind on one or more tax years. Whether you forgot to file or had a life situation that delayed it, we can prepare and file past-due returns, correct previous errors, and work with the IRS to get you back in good standing. It’s never too late to catch up — but the sooner you do, the better your options.
- 05If you’re a freelancer, gig worker, or small business owner, you’re responsible for reporting all income and paying self-employment taxes. The good news? You can also deduct legitimate business expenses such as mileage, supplies, marketing, and part of your home office. We specialize in helping self-employed individuals organize records and maximize deductions — without raising red flags.
Blogs
💡 The Smart Way to Use Your Tax Refund This Year
Tax season isn’t just about forms and numbers — it’s about opportunity. Whether your refund is big or small, it can be the jumpstart you need to reach your next financial goal. Instead of letting it disappear on quick splurges, think long-term value, family memories, and peace of mind. Here are a few creative, family-friendly ways to make your refund really work for you this year. 💰 1. Build (or Rebuild) Your Emergency Funds Life happens — cars break down, kids get sick, job
Progressive Tax Services | Helping Families Thrive, Year After Year
Oct 28, 20252 min read
💍 Married Filing Jointly or Separately? What’s Best for You?
💍 Marriage brings plenty of exciting firsts — your first home, shared goals, and maybe even your first joint tax return. But when it comes to filing your taxes, many couples are left wondering: Should we file jointly or separately? The truth is, both filing statuses have pros and cons. The right choice depends on your income, deductions, and sometimes — where you live. At Progressive Tax Services, we’re here to help you understand each option so you can make the best decisio
Progressive Tax Services | Helping Families Thrive, Year After Year
Oct 28, 20253 min read
🎓 How College Students Can Maximize Their Refunds
A guide for students (and parents) on filing for tuition credits, scholarships, and side-hustle income College life comes with plenty of lessons — and not all of them happen in the classroom. Learning how taxes work can save students and parents real money every single year. Whether you’re juggling textbooks and a part-time job or you’re the parent footing the tuition bill, knowing what to claim can make a big difference come tax time. Here’s how college students can make sur
Progressive Tax Services | Helping Families Thrive, Year After Year
Oct 28, 20253 min read
Hidden Tax Breaks Every Parent Should Know About
Being a parent comes with a lot of surprises — from sleepless nights to never-ending snack runs — but did you know it can also come with a few pleasant surprises when tax time rolls around? Many parents miss out on valuable credits and deductions simply because they don’t know they exist. At Progressive Tax Services, we believe your hard work deserves every dollar you’ve earned. Here are some hidden tax breaks every parent should know about to keep more money in your pocket t
Progressive Tax Services | Helping Families Thrive, Year After Year
Oct 28, 20253 min read
💸 The Top 5 Mistakes Families Make on Their Taxes
(and How to Avoid Turning Tax Season into a Family Soap Opera) Ah, tax season — that magical time of year when families across America gather around the kitchen table, armed with laptops, coffee, and misplaced W-2s. Every parent suddenly becomes a mathematician, every teenager becomes “too busy,” and somehow nobody remembers who last claimed Grandma as a dependent. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The IRS might not find it funny, but the truth is: tax season is full
Progressive Tax Services | Helping Families Thrive, Year After Year
Oct 14, 20255 min read
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