Key Takeaways
Why filing on your own is manageable
The federal tax return can look intimidating the first time you see it, but the process follows a logical sequence: report all income, subtract what you are allowed to deduct, apply any credits you qualify for, and compare the result to what was already withheld from your paychecks. If more was withheld than you owe, you receive a refund. If less was withheld, you pay the difference.
Before you start, read the tax filing preparation checklist so nothing catches you off guard mid-return. It is also worth scanning common tax myths that confuse new filers so you go in with accurate expectations.
What you will need
The tools and forms below are what you will need on hand.
IRS Free File
Free guided tax software offered through the IRS for filers whose income falls below a set threshold.
W-2 form
Reports wages paid by an employer and the federal, state, and local taxes already withheld.
1099 form (various types)
Reports income received outside of a traditional payroll, such as freelance earnings or bank interest.
IRS Form 1040
The standard federal individual income tax return form used by almost all US filers.
Social Security Number or ITIN
Your unique taxpayer identifier, required on every federal return.
Step-by-step: completing your return
Follow each step in order. Skipping ahead, particularly past document collection or filing status selection, is the source of most beginner errors. For a broader look at the mistakes first-time filers make, see why first-time filers make these tax mistakes.
Collect all required documents
Before opening any software or form, pull together every document that records money you received or taxes already paid during the year. The most common document is the W-2, which your employer must mail or make available electronically by January 31. If you did any freelance, gig, or contract work, look for 1099-NEC forms. If you earned bank interest, watch for a 1099-INT. See our full preparation checklist for a complete list of documents to gather before you sit down to file.
Choose your filing status
Your filing status is a category the IRS uses to determine your standard deduction and your tax bracket. The five statuses are: Single, Married Filing Jointly, Married Filing Separately, Head of Household, and Qualifying Surviving Spouse. Most first-time filers who are unmarried and do not support a dependent will use Single. If you supported a child or another qualifying person and paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home, you may qualify for Head of Household, which carries a larger standard deduction.
Decide between the standard deduction and itemizing
A deduction reduces the portion of your income the IRS taxes. The IRS offers two paths: take the standard deduction (a fixed dollar amount set by filing status) or itemize (add up specific expenses such as mortgage interest, state taxes, and charitable contributions). For most first-time filers, the standard deduction is larger than the total they could itemize, so it is the simpler and more beneficial choice. The IRS adjusts the standard deduction amounts annually for inflation; check the current figures at irs.gov before filing.
Check for credits you may qualify for
A tax credit is different from a deduction: it reduces your tax bill dollar for dollar rather than just lowering taxable income. First-time filers often overlook credits available to them. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is available to lower- and moderate-income workers; the American Opportunity Tax Credit applies to qualified college expenses; and the Saver's Credit rewards contributions to a retirement account. Each credit has its own income and eligibility requirements, so confirm you meet them before claiming.
Enter your information and review carefully
Open your chosen software or Form 1040 and enter every figure exactly as it appears on your documents. Transfer wages from Box 1 of your W-2, federal tax withheld from Box 2, and Social Security wages from Box 3. Double-check your Social Security Number, your name spelling, and your bank account details. A single transposed digit in a bank routing number can delay your refund significantly. Read every line before submitting; software that guides you through questions reduces the chance of a missed field.
Submit your return and confirm receipt
Electronic filing (e-filing) through IRS Free File or other IRS-authorized software is faster than mailing a paper return and gives you an immediate confirmation that the IRS received your return. If you are owed a refund and choose direct deposit, the IRS typically processes refunds within 21 days of acceptance. If you owe tax, you can e-file today and schedule payment up to the April 15 deadline to avoid penalties. After submitting, save your confirmation number and a copy of the completed return for your records.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Tax rules change frequently, and your situation may involve factors not addressed here. Consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your circumstances.