The tax year

The tax year for individuals is the calendar year, beginning on January 1 and ending on December 31.  The income tax return for a year is required to be submitted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on or before April 15 following the tax year.  A person is required to calculate the taxes, which are due by them, if any, and to remit payment of any outstanding taxes with their return.  Tax refunds are sent to taxpayers soon after they have submitted their return.

Filing requirements

Everyone is required to file a tax return unless their income is minimal.  The amount varies depending on whether they are single, a head of household or a married couple.

Joint or separate returns

Most married couples file joint returns by combining their income and deductions so that they qualify for the lowest tax rates.  However, some couples are now finding that filing separately can save tax.  You should always calculate tax both ways before submitting a return.