Guide To The 2017 Irs Form 1040A Tax Filling Instructions And Information

The 2017 IRS Form 1040A, also known as the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, serves as a simplified tax filing option for individuals with relatively straightforward tax situations. This form is shorter and less complex than the standard Form 1040, making it a popular choice for taxpayers who do not have extensive deductions or credits to claim. The following guide provides comprehensive information about accessing, completing, and submitting the 2017 Form 1040A based on official sources.

Accessing the 2017 Form 1040A

Taxpayers seeking to file their 2017 tax returns have multiple options for accessing Form 1040A. The form is available through various online platforms and can be obtained in printable formats for those who prefer manual completion.

Online platforms such as eFile.com offer the ability to complete tax forms online for free. These platforms provide an online editor where taxpayers can open and fill out the forms before printing and mailing them to the IRS. According to eFile.com, using their service eliminates the need to handle complicated tax forms directly, as the platform handles the complex calculations and formatting.

For those who prefer to work with physical documents, printable versions of the 2017 1040A form are available through several websites. These printable templates can be downloaded in formats like JPG and do not require specialized software or technical expertise. Taxpayers can simply download the form, complete the necessary information manually or on a computer, and print as many copies as needed.

Eligibility for Using Form 1040A

Form 1040A is designed for taxpayers with uncomplicated financial situations. While the specific eligibility criteria are not detailed in the provided source material, it is mentioned that this form is suitable for individuals who do not have many deductions or credits to claim. The form allows taxpayers to report basic income sources, claim the standard deduction, and utilize various credits and deductions that are commonly available to most filers.

The form is particularly beneficial for seniors who want to minimize the complexity of their tax returns, as noted in one of the source documents. Additionally, it serves as a practical option for those who prefer to fill out tax forms by hand rather than using tax software or hiring a professional tax preparer.

Key Components of Form 1040A

The 2017 Form 1040A contains several sections that taxpayers must complete accurately. Based on the sample form provided in the source data, the key components include:

Personal Information Section

This section requires taxpayers to provide: - First name, middle initial, and last name - Social Security number - Home address, including apartment number, city, state, and ZIP code - Foreign address information (if applicable) - Filing status (single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying widow(er))

Exemptions Section

The form includes space for listing exemptions, which may include: - The taxpayer themselves (unless someone else can claim them as a dependent) - Spouse (if filing jointly) - Dependents, with space for their names, Social Security numbers, and relationships - Information about qualifying children under age 17

Income Reporting

Taxpayers must report their income details, including: - Wages, salaries, and tips - Income from other sources as documented on Forms W-2 or 1099 - Total income calculation - Adjustments to arrive at adjusted gross income

Tax Calculation

After reporting income, taxpayers must: - Determine their standard deduction based on filing status - Complete the tax calculation sections - Include information regarding any tax payments, refunds, and applicable credits

Final Review and Submission

The final steps involve: - Reviewing the calculated tax owed or refund amount - Providing direct deposit information if applicable - Signing and dating the form - Mailing the completed form to the appropriate IRS address

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Form 1040A Online

For those choosing to complete Form 1040A online, the following general steps are typically involved:

1. Obtain the form by clicking a "Get Form" button on the online platform
2. Enter personal information including:
   • First name, middle initial, and last name
   • Social Security number
   • Spouse's information (if filing jointly)
3. Provide complete address information
4. Select the appropriate filing status
5. List dependents and their relevant information
6. Input income details using supporting documents like W-2 or 1099 forms
7. Calculate total income and make necessary adjustments to determine adjusted gross income
8. Determine the standard deduction based on filing status
9. Complete tax calculation sections
10. Include information about tax payments, refunds, and credits
11. Review the final tax owed or refund amount
12. Provide direct deposit information if applicable
13. Save the completed form
14. Download, print, or share the completed document

Benefits of Using Form 1040A

Several advantages make Form 1040A an attractive option for eligible taxpayers:

1. Simplicity: The form is shorter and less complex than the standard Form 1040, making it easier to understand and complete.

2. Accessibility: The form is available through multiple online platforms and in printable formats, providing flexibility in how taxpayers choose to complete their returns.

3. Cost-Effective: Online platforms offer free completion options, and printable forms can be obtained without cost.

4. Credit Availability: The form allows taxpayers to claim certain tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit, which can significantly reduce tax liability or increase refunds for eligible individuals and families with lower incomes.

5. Educational Value: Completing the form manually can help taxpayers better understand their tax situation and ensure accurate reporting of income and eligible deductions.

Important Considerations When Using Form 1040A

While Form 1040A offers simplicity for many taxpayers, there are important considerations to keep in mind:

1. Eligibility: Not all taxpayers are eligible to use Form 1040A. Those with more complex financial situations, extensive deductions, or specific types of income may need to use the standard Form 1040 instead.

2. Accuracy: Careful attention must be paid to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Errors can lead to processing delays, additional IRS correspondence, or potential penalties.

3. Documentation: Taxpayers should maintain all supporting documentation, including W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and records of deductions and credits, for at least three years after filing.

4. Deadlines: Tax returns for 2017 were typically due by April 18, 2018. However, taxpayers who missed this deadline may still file to claim any refund they are owed, as there is no time limit for claiming refunds.

5. Amendments: If changes or corrections are needed after filing, taxpayers can complete and sign IRS Tax Amendment Form 1040X online and mail it to the address on the form with the rest of the amended return.

Conclusion

The 2017 IRS Form 1040A provides a simplified option for taxpayers with straightforward financial situations to file their federal income tax returns. Available through multiple online platforms and in printable formats, the form allows eligible individuals to report basic income sources, claim the standard deduction, and utilize common tax credits. By following the instructions carefully and ensuring all information is accurate, taxpayers can complete this form successfully and meet their tax obligations to the IRS. For those with more complex tax situations, consulting with a tax professional or using the standard Form 1040 may be necessary.

Sources

1. eFile.com: 2017 IRS Tax Return Information
2. USLegalForms: IRS 1040-A Instructions
3. PrintablesForm: Printable 2017 1040a Income Tax Form
4. FormsBank: Form 1040A Template