Filer Type: You work a traditional job and receive a W-2 from your employer. 

What to Know: Taxes are typically withheld throughout the year, but this doesn't always mean your withholdings match what you owe.

Your Responsibility: Ensure your W-2 is accurate. Bring any deduction documents such as for student loans or dependents.

What to Expect: If enough was withheld, expect a refund. If not, you might owe a small amount. 

Helpful Tips: Check your withholding annually using the IRS estimator. Claim deductions to lower taxable income. 

Filer Type: You earned income independently or through gig work without taxes withheld. 

What to Know: You are responsible for both income tax and self-employment tax. Your Responsibility: Gather all 1099s, receipts, and expense records. File Schedule C and pay estimated taxes if applicable. 

What to Expect: Expect to owe unless you've paid quarterly or claimed sufficient deductions. 

Helpful Tips: Track expenses year-round. Use bookkeeping software. Consider a SEP IRA for additional deductions. 

Filer Type: You worked more than one job or had extra income from freelance or gig work. 

What to Know: Multiple income sources can bump you into a higher tax bracket and may result in under-withholding. 

Your Responsibility: Report all income. Combine W-2s, 1099s, and side hustle earnings accurately. 

What to Expect: Smaller refund or a surprise tax bill if not enough was withheld. 

Helpful Tips: Adjust withholdings using a W-4 form and track additional income with care. 

Filer Type: You're claiming one or more dependents on your return. 

What to Know: You may qualify for the Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Credit, or other dependent-related tax breaks. 

Your Responsibility: Ensure dependents meet IRS requirements and gather correct documentation. 

What to Expect: Larger refund if credits apply. Refund may be delayed for verification. 

Helpful Tips: File early and double-check dependent information to avoid delays or rejections. 

Filer Type: Youre filing behind schedule or didnt file at all last year. 

What to Know: Penalties and interest accrue over time. Refunds expire after three years. 

Your Responsibility: File as soon as possible, even if its late. Avoid further delays. 

What to Expect: You may face late penalties if you owe. If youre due a refund, you might still get it. 

Helpful Tips: Consider filing electronically for speed. Contact the IRS if you need a payment plan. 

Filer Type: You received a letter or notice from the IRS regarding your taxes. 

What to Know: IRS notices can result from missing info, mismatches, or random review. 

Your Responsibility: Read the notice carefully, respond by the deadline, and provide any requested documents. 

What to Expect: Resolution may be simple if handled quickly. Ignoring it can lead to more penalties. 

Helpful Tips: Stay calm, organized, and respond promptly. Consider professional help if unsure how to reply. 

Filer Type: You're filing taxes for the first time-likely with low income or part-time work. 

What to Know: Filing builds your tax history and may qualify you for education credits. 

Your Responsibility: Report all earned income, including scholarships that may count as income. 

What to Expect: Likely a refund and a good start to your tax record. 

Helpful Tips: Keep records of your tuition and income documents. Learn how deductions and credits work. 

Filer Type: You worked a W-2 job and also earned income through an LLC or freelance gig. 

What to Know: Combining employee and self-employed income affects your tax bracket and increases documentation needs. 

Your Responsibility: File both your W-2 and a Schedule C. Track all business income and expenses. 

What to Expect: Higher income may raise taxes, but deductions can help lower your total liability. 

Helpful Tips: Use bookkeeping tools to stay organized. Consider estimated tax payments for the business income. 

Filer Type: You operate a registered LLC or Corporation and filing as S-Corp. 

What to Know: Your business may require a separate return (1120 or 1120S) and specific deductions. 

Your Responsibility: Separate your business and personal finances. Prepare accurate books and business filings. 

What to Expect: Multiple filings and potential savings with the right structure. 

Helpful Tips: Hire a tax pro or use software designed for entities. Keep clear documentation of all financial activity.