How to Check if I Filed Taxes Last Year
Understanding whether you filed taxes last year is crucial for various reasons, such as eligibility for tax refunds, credits, and benefits. Whether you’re preparing to file this year or simply need to verify your tax history, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check if you filed taxes last year.
1. Contact the IRS
The first step to check if you filed taxes last year is to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You can do this by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. When you call, have your Social Security number, filing status, and filing method (paper or electronic) ready. The IRS representative will be able to confirm if you filed taxes and provide you with additional information, if necessary.
2. Use the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” Tool
The IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool is an online tool that allows you to check the status of your tax refund. If you filed your taxes electronically, you can use this tool to verify if you filed taxes last year. To access the tool, visit the IRS website and enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount of your refund, if known. If you filed a paper return, you can still use this tool to check the status of your return, but it may take longer to process.
3. Check Your Tax Account
Another way to check if you filed taxes last year is to check your tax account on the IRS website. To do this, you’ll need to create an account and log in. Once logged in, you can view your tax account, which includes information about your tax returns, refunds, and other tax-related information. This method is particularly useful if you need to access detailed information about your tax history.
4. Contact Your Tax Preparer
If you used a tax preparer to file your taxes last year, you can contact them to verify if you filed taxes. Provide them with your name, Social Security number, and any other information they may need to locate your tax return. Tax preparers are required to keep records of their clients’ tax returns for a certain period, so they should be able to confirm if you filed taxes last year.
5. Review Your Bank Statements
Reviewing your bank statements for any electronic tax payments or refunds can also help you determine if you filed taxes last year. If you received a refund or made a tax payment, it’s likely that you filed taxes. However, this method is not foolproof, as some taxpayers may not receive a refund or make a payment.
In conclusion, there are several ways to check if you filed taxes last year. By contacting the IRS, using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool, checking your tax account, contacting your tax preparer, or reviewing your bank statements, you can ensure that you have a clear understanding of your tax history. This information is valuable for various purposes, so it’s essential to verify your tax filing status when needed.
