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The standard federal income tax deadline is April 15. If it falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. You can request an automatic six-month extension, but any taxes owed are still due by April 15.

Common documents include W-2s (from employers), 1099s (freelance or investment income), mortgage interest statements (Form 1098), Social Security numbers for all dependents, last year's tax return, and receipts for deductible expenses.

For 2024, the standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers, $29,200 for married filing jointly, and $21,900 for head of household. These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation.

Take whichever is larger. Most people benefit from the standard deduction, but if you have significant mortgage interest, charitable contributions, or state and local taxes, itemizing may save you more. We can run both scenarios for you.

Common triggers include large deductions relative to income, unreported income, home office deductions, unusually high business expenses, and math errors. Working with a tax professional significantly reduces audit risk.

If you're self-employed and use a dedicated space in your home regularly and exclusively for business, yes. W-2 employees cannot claim home office deductions under current tax law.