context, I'm 19 and made pretty close to 11 grand this and last year but have never claimed any taxes, last year i worked hourly and this year i worked hourly plus tips, should I go to a tax agent if i'm unsure how to file, or try and do them myself, i don't want to do something wrong and get audited but i also don't want all of my return going to an agent, should i be worried about getting audited or getting overcharged?
Posted by Sooomthing1
5 Comments
First congrats on being proactive. If you got a W2 for 2024 you’ll want to file that even though it’s late. You will have penalties on that but best to knock it out before it gets to legal orders.
Next filing is pretty simple, I use online service called taxslayer.com in the past and have had no issues with it. Although if you want someone that knows what they are doing, you can try your local community college to see if they have students preparing returns. I am in Sacramento California, the local JC has students in the accounting program prepare taxes either super cheap or free. In California we also have a program called VITA. I forget what it stands for but it’s volunteers that prepare fairly simple returns or free.
You can also call places like Jackson Hewitt or H & R block to see what they charge for a simple return. But if it’s just a W2 that you have taxslayer will walk you through it all. Another thing to check is your states tax board website to see if they have free filing option.
Return is the forms you file refund is the money you might get back. Your return seems pretty straight forward. However for the first time I would suggest going to a professional. One thing to watch out for is make sure your parents and you are clear about rules for claiming you as dependent.
I say this because sometimes parents get used to having the benefit of a dependent and don’t think about their child’s status changing. If yours did.
or seek a free service VITA/AARP taxaide
Are you claimed by your parents? a student?
You are under the standard deduction for both 2024 and 2025 based on the info you provided. In simplest terms – you have no federal filing requirement for either year because your tax for each year is zero. You would only have to file a federal return if you had federal income tax withheld so that you can claim a refund. You can still do that for 2024. Depending on where you live, you might have a state filing requirement.
Honestly, tax filing can feel really intimidating, especially for the first time. Since you’re unsure about how to file, it might be worth consulting with a tax professional just to make sure you get it right. They can help you navigate the process and make sure you’re taking advantage of any deductions you might qualify for.
That said, if you’re looking to save money, there are plenty of online resources and tax software that can guide you through filing your own taxes. Just be aware that you’ll need to be meticulous to avoid mistakes that could trigger an audit.
As for the fear of being audited, it’s not as common for individuals with lower income levels, but it’s always smart to keep good records.
What’s your comfort level with doing things online? Have you considered any tax software?