Let's Just File Already
by Anoushka Mirchandani, Founder & CEO
Tax season—it's like that one chore we all avoid until it's staring us in the face. Every year, I joke with my husband about moving to Dubai just to skip it. And yet, without fail, April rolls around, and we're digging through emails for lost documents, panicking over deadlines, and swearing we'll be more prepared next year.
Turns out, we're not alone. One in four Americans wait until the last two weeks to file. Maybe it's the paperwork, maybe it's the fear of owing, or maybe we all secretly enjoy the adrenaline rush of a looming government deadline.
But let's be real—procrastinating only makes it worse. The stress, the late-night number crunching, the last-minute panic—it's not worth it. This year, let's file on time, keep it simple, and (for once) not let tax season ruin our April.
Here's how to knock it out quickly, avoid mistakes, and make sure you're not leaving money on the table.
Step 1: Rip Off the Band-Aid—Get Your Documents Together
The biggest mistake people make during tax season? Waiting until they have "everything" before they start. Spoiler alert: You'll probably never feel fully ready. Just like with anything else in personal finance, there's no perfect moment—so stop waiting for one. The sooner you start, the less painful it'll be.
Start with the basics:
- W-2 — If you have a 9-to-5 and are getting a salary, your employer sends this.
- 1099s — Side hustle? Freelance work? Sold stuff online? You likely have one or some.
- Mortgage or rent docs — Homeowners, check Form 1098 for possible deductions. Renters, some states (like NJ, CA, MI) offer tax breaks.
- Student loan interest (Form 1098-E) — Paid $600+ in interest? You may get a deduction.
- Last year's tax return — A cheat sheet to make sure you don't miss anything.
Still waiting on something? No problem—just start with what you have. The sooner you dive in, the sooner you're done.
Step 2: Figure Out How You're Filing (Don't Overcomplicate It)
If your taxes are simple (just a W-2 and maybe some deductions), use tax software like TurboTax, H&R Block, or Cash App Taxes. Many offer free filing for basic returns.
Got a more complicated situation—like self-employment, investments, or rental properties? Hiring a tax pro might be worth it.
Pro Tip: Want a smaller refund and bigger paychecks throughout the year? Lower your withholdings. Owed money last year and don't want that surprise again? Increase them. Your W-4 controls how much tax your employer withholds—most employers let you update it online.
Step 3: Claim Every Deduction & Credit You Deserve
If there's ever a time to be thorough, it's now—this is where you actually save money. So don't skip it!
A deduction lowers your taxable income, meaning you owe less.
A credit is even better—it's actual money back in your pocket.
Here are a few to check for:
- Student Loan Interest Deduction – Up to $2,500—even if payments were paused.
- Home Office Deduction – If you're self-employed, part of your rent/mortgage, utilities, and internet may be deductible.
- Saver's Credit – Contributed to a 401(k), IRA, or Roth IRA? You could get a 10-50% credit on up to $2,000.
- Child Tax Credit – Up to $2,000 per child under 17.
- State-Specific Credits – Some states offer credits for renters, home upgrades, and college savings contributions.
Step 4: Don't Rush (But Also… Don't Wait)
I get it—taxes are boring. But rushing at the last minute? That's how mistakes happen. Money needs time to simmer, and the IRS? Not exactly known for its chill.
- Check your numbers – One typo can delay your refund for weeks.
- Double-check your bank info – Waiting for a paper check is so 90s. Use direct deposit—it's faster, safer, and better for the planet.
- Hit submit & breathe easy – The sooner you file, the sooner you're done.
Step 5: If You Really Can't File on Time, Do This
Need more time? File for an extension. It's free and gives you until October 15.
But here's the catch: an extension gives you more time to file—not more time to pay. If you owe, pay what you can by the original deadline to avoid penalties.
- Can't pay in full? The IRS offers payment plans—definitely better than ignoring it and racking up fees.
Final Thoughts: Just File and Be Done
Taxes aren't fun, but they don't have to be painful. The worst part? Avoiding them.
Once you file, it's off your plate—no more stress, no more "I'll do it tomorrow." And if you're getting a refund, why wait to get your money back? Imagine if you invested it—two birds, one stone.
So grab a coffee (or maybe a glass of wine), take a deep breath, and get it done. Future-you will thank you.
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