FAQs for Frantic Tax Clients: Quick Answers to 2025's Most Common Tax Questions
WebCE Staff
By
March 31, 2025
The April 15th tax deadline is fast approaching, and your clients likely have plenty of last-minute questions.
We've rounded up the most common concerns your clients might have, concise answers you can forward directly to your clients, along with a list of quick tips all to help you save valuable time and energy during these busy weeks.
1. What's the exact tax filing deadline this year?
Answer: The tax filing deadline for federal income tax returns this year is Tuesday, April 15. If you need more time to file, consider an extension using Form 4868, which gives you until October 15.
Quick communication: "The federal tax filing deadline is April 15. Let me know immediately if you think you'll need an extension."
2. If I file an extension, does that mean I have extra time to pay my taxes?
Answer: No. Filing an extension only gives extra time to file paperwork—not to pay taxes owed. Payments are still due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
Quick communication: "An extension provides extra time to file but not extra time to pay. Taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid additional charges."
3. Are stimulus payments or child tax credits taxable this year?
Answer: No, these payments are not taxable income. However, you must accurately report amounts received to confirm eligibility for certain tax credits.
Quick communication: "Stimulus checks and child tax credits aren't taxable, but please confirm the amounts you received to ensure your eligibility for credits."
4. What documents do I absolutely need for filing my taxes?
Answer: Essential documents include W-2s, 1099 forms (for freelance income, interest, dividends, retirement), expense receipts, health insurance forms (1095), and records of estimated tax payments.
Quick communication: "Make sure you've gathered your W-2s, 1099s, expense receipts, health insurance documents, and records of estimated payments to file efficiently."
5. I've missed a deduction or credit on a previous year's return. Can I still claim it?
Answer: Yes, you typically have three years from the original filing date to amend returns using Form 1040-X and claim missed deductions or credits.
Quick communication: "You can amend previous returns up to three years back if you missed any deductions or credits. Contact me to discuss this further."
6. What common tax mistakes should I double-check for before submitting?
Answer: Verify Social Security numbers, signatures, bank details for direct deposits, and arithmetic calculations—common errors that can delay processing.
Quick communication: "Double-check Social Security numbers, signatures, direct deposit information, and math before submitting your taxes to avoid processing delays."
7. How can I quickly check my refund status?
Answer: Use the IRS's "Where’s My Refund?" tool. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount handy.
Quick communication: "You can quickly track your refund status through the IRS’s online 'Where's My Refund?' tool."
8. What are my options for paying my taxes if I owe?
Answer: The IRS offers several ways to pay your taxes, including direct debit from your bank account, payment by check or money order, credit or debit card payments online or by phone, and the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) for businesses and individuals.
Quick communication: "If you owe taxes, you can pay through direct debit, check, credit/debit card, or EFTPS. Let me know if you'd like more details on any of these options."
9. What about state taxes? Is the deadline the same?
Answer: State tax deadlines and extension rules can vary from the federal deadline. Please check with your specific state's tax agency for their filing and payment due dates.
Quick communication: "Remember that state tax deadlines and rules can be different from the federal ones. Please check your state's tax agency website for more information."
10. I'm worried about scams. What should I watch out for?
Answer: Be cautious of unsolicited communications claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS typically contacts taxpayers by mail first, not by phone, email, or text message demanding immediate payment. Never give out personal or financial information over the phone or internet if you are unsure of the sender's legitimacy.
Quick communication: "Be aware of potential IRS scams. The IRS usually contacts you by mail first and will never demand immediate payment over the phone or ask for personal information via email or text."
Quick Tips for Tax Professionals:
Streamline Communications: Use ready-to-send messages like the ones above to efficiently handle frequent inquiries.
Batch Responses: Set aside specific time blocks each day (e.g., mid-morning and late afternoon) to respond collectively to client questions to boost productivity.
Delegate Clearly: If you have support staff, ensure they have clear scripts, access to relevant client information (while maintaining privacy protocols), and links to official resources for client interactions to reduce errors and minimize follow-up questions.
Communicate Payment Options Proactively: Consider including a brief overview of payment options in your initial filing instructions or reminders.
Remind Clients About State Requirements: When discussing federal deadlines, briefly remind clients to check their state's tax obligations.
Educate on Scam Awareness: Include a short blurb in your email signatures or client communications about being vigilant against tax scams.
Stay Sharp with Continuing Education: Make time after the deadline to review any tax CPE courses you may need. Whether you’re completing CPA Continuing Professional Education (CPE) or Enrolled Agent (EA) Continuing Education (CE), staying current supports your role as a trusted advisor.
By proactively addressing these frequently asked questions and equipping yourself with efficient communication tools, you'll save valuable time and reduce client anxiety during the hectic final days of tax season. And once the dust settles, don't forget to knock out any required tax CPE courses to stay ahead for next year.