How soon can I make my taxes?

Question

Hi, Can somebody tell me how soon I can make my taxes this is the problem, I am going to travel and be out of the states for almost six months but I would like to make my taxes before I leave, or, Is there a way somebody can make them on my name? I leave on December 15th. and return on June 20th. Help please?

Answer 1

File for an extension, or file remotely from where you will be.  You can't file before you leave.  You won't have all of your tax paperwork yet, and the forms won't be ready anyway.

If you'll have Internet access where you are, and someone can send you your tax paperwork, you could file from where you are.  You could efile from just the info from the paperwork.

Answer 2

As long as the IRS thinks "they owe you" money (and they really do) it should not be an issue.  You have up to 3 years from normal filing date to file for a refund.

If you cannot e-file from where you are or have someone you trust to do them, it would be a good idea to at least file an automatic extension, especially if there is anything you need to account for that might make it look like you owe (deductions or cost basis of capital gains).  If you would owe money, you have to pay that by next April 15th to avoid penalties and interest, even if you file for an extension. http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc304.html

If you file late and are due a refund I think they actually pay interest on your refund.  Or at least they did when I filed an amended return the following year.

Answer 3

Judy is correct. However, there is another option available. You could sign a limited Power of Attorney (limited to only one year and only for a tax return).

  But, make sure the person that you assign this power to is capable and trustworthy.  

  If it were me I would file an extension or file on-line...but this is another option.

Hope this helps.