IRS Tax Forms | Fillable Forms

Table of Contents

• Tax Forms for Individuals
• Tax Forms for Businesses and Self-Employed
• What Tax Forms Do I Need?
• Tax Law Updates 2024
• Tax Filing Deadlines
• Penalties and Extensions
• Frequently Asked Questions

Tax Forms for Individuals

Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most individuals use Form 1040 to report income, deductions, and credits—and ensure they meet their annual tax obligations. Legal Templates makes it easy to access and complete the forms you need, whether you’re filing a 1040 or managing additional tax requirements.

We also provide other essential forms for individuals. Claiming a home office deduction? Use Form 8829. Need to request a tax transcript? Form 4506-T has you covered. Granting permission for the IRS to share your tax information? That’s where Form 8821 comes in. Whatever your tax needs, we’re here to simplify the process.

Tax Forms for Businesses and Self-Employed

Running a business or being self-employed means managing unique tax requirements. From reporting payments to contractors and employees to meeting hiring documentation needs, the IRS provides specific forms tailored to these tasks.

You’ll commonly use forms like W-9 to request taxpayer information, Form I-9 for verifying new hires, and various information returns to report payments. With the right forms at your fingertips, staying organized and compliant becomes much more manageable.

What Tax Forms Do I Need?

Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by understanding what forms and documents you’ll need. Taxes fall into two categories: federal and state/local. Everyone files federal income taxes, while state and local taxes depend on where you live.

Most individuals begin with Form 1040, which covers income, deductions, and credits. To ensure a smooth filing process, gather these common documents first:

• W-2s: Reports your annual wages and tax withholdings, sent by your employer.
• 1099s: Tracks freelance income, investment earnings, or other miscellaneous income.
• Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098): Provided by your lender to report paid mortgage interest.
• Investment income statements: Includes details on dividends, capital gains, or interest earnings.
• Charitable contribution receipts: Documents your eligible donations for potential deductions.

These forms are typically sent by mail or electronically. If you’re missing any, take these steps:

• Contact your employer, bank, or mortgage provider to request a replacement.
• Log in to your payroll or financial institution’s online portal for downloadable versions.

Self-employed individuals may need additional forms:

• Schedule C: To report business income and expenses.
• Form 8829: For claiming home office deductions.

If you plan to authorize someone to manage your taxes, use the following forms:

• IRS Power of Attorney Form 2848: Designates someone to represent you for federal tax matters.
• State Tax Power of Attorney Form: Allows representation for state-specific tax filings.

Preparing ahead and knowing which forms you need ensures an easier filing process. With a little organization, you can meet deadlines and stay on top of your taxes without stress.

Tax Law Updates 2024

The IRS has updated the standard deduction amounts for 2024. Single filers and married individuals filing separately can claim $14,600. Married couples filing jointly are eligible for a $29,200 deduction, and those filing as head of household can claim $21,900.

If you’re planning to itemize deductions, make sure you have proof to back up your claims. Keep receipts for charitable donations, medical expenses, and other deductible items, along with statements from your mortgage lender, bank, or investment accounts. Organizing these documents ahead of time will make the filing process smoother and ensure you’re ready if the IRS requests verification.

Staying organized and prepared throughout the year is the best way to confidently file your taxes and maximize any deductions you qualify for.

Tax Filing Deadlines

The IRS due dates depend on the tax form you’re submitting. Generally, the IRS expects businesses to report employee earnings and vendor payments shortly after the tax year ends. Your organization may have monthly or quarterly filing responsibilities for estimated income tax and payroll withholdings.

Wage-earning individuals don’t have quite as many deadlines to worry about. But if you’re self-employed, you may owe estimated tax filings and informational returns to any vendors or employees you hire.

2025 Tax Day

The due date for most tax returns is April 15, 2025. If you need additional time to prepare your return, you may request a six-month extension.

Employer Deadlines

You can use the below calendar as a quick reference for standard employer tax form due dates.

Self-Employed Deadlines

Freelancers and other self-employed individuals submit quarterly returns and estimated tax payments to the IRS. Use the table to plan your returns in 2025.

Employee Deadlines

If you’re an employee, you won’t have quite as many tax filing responsibilities as businesses and self-employed workers. Keep an eye on these deadlines:

How to Organize Your Tax Documents

Organizing your tax documents is the key to a smooth tax season. Whether you file yourself or work with a professional, having everything in order saves time and helps avoid mistakes.

Start by gathering the essentials:

• Income forms like W-2s or 1099s.
• Mortgage interest statements and investment income records.
• Receipts for deductible expenses, such as donations or medical bills.

Sort your documents into categories, like income, deductions, and credits, to keep things simple. If anything is missing, request replacements from your employer, bank, or lender as soon as possible.

Think about how complex your tax situation is. Filing yourself may work for simple returns, but if you’re self-employed or have significant deductions, consider hiring a tax professional. Even if you don’t file yourself, having your documents organized makes it easier to share them with your accountant.

Taking a little time now to organize your paperwork sets you up for success and helps you file with confidence.

Penalties and Extensions

Missing a tax deadline isn’t ideal, since it usually results in penalties. The IRS charges interest on unpaid penalties and taxes until you pay off the balance.

You may avoid a failure-to-file penalty if you request an extension in advance.

Filing Extensions

If you require an extension to complete your federal tax forms successfully, file Form 4868 for individuals or Form 7004 for businesses. If granted, this extension will give you until October 15, 2024, to file your federal tax returns.

However, it is essential to note that while these forms may grant you an extension to file your tax returns, they do not grant an extension for payment of taxes.

Frequently Asked Questions