By MATT PIKE
St. Joseph Post
As people file their tax returns leading up to the filing deadline, officials with the IRS say there are several myths that people may think are true.
Spokesman Michael Devine says one of those myths is that if you call the Internal Revenue Service you will get your tax return back faster.
Devine says while this is not true, there are tools to get an idea of where your refund is.
"The where's my refund tool on IRS.gov, or through 800-829-1954, this is a tool that you can go in, put your information in, and it will tell you what the status of your refund is," Devine tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.
While you can't call the IRS to speed up getting your tax refund, Devine says there is a way to ensure you get your tax return quicker.
Devine says when you file, the best way to do it is setting up direct deposit and completing your filing online.
"Your refund will be back in your bank account in 21 days of less, usually it's a lot less than 21 days unless there's a problem, so direct deposit and E-file is the best way to do your return," Devine explains. "It's the fastest, the safest, and the quickest way to get your refund."
Devine says so far this tax season 90% of tax returns have been filed online. Tax forms or requests for an extension are due by April 18th.
If you're unsure if your tax return is going to be as big as you'd like it to be, the IRS has a tool for you so that you can check throughout the year how you're doing.
Devine says most people want a big tax return, even if that means getting paid less during the year.
Devine says before tax season hits the IRS has a withholdings tool that people can use to check on if their tax return will be as big as they'd like.
"You can put your information in and get a very, very good estimate of how you're doing, whether your being over withheld, which means you're going to get a big refund, or under withheld, which means you're going to have to pay," Devine says. "And then you can adjust your withholding through your employer so that you get a little refund, and have more money all year, it's totally up to you."
Devine says you should check the withholding tool in June and December to have a good estimate of where you are at for the upcoming tax season.