Filled out my first US tax returns. I don't remember ever filling out a tax return before, anywhere. These returns were completed a shade close to the April 15th deadline but on time nevertheless. Separate federal and state tax returns are required for federal and state taxes. Both of these levels of government tax income. There is also a wonderful 6 % tax called 'use tax' in CT. Almost any possession you purchase to use in CT has a 6 % rider attached to it by the state government, that you have to keep track of and then report in your statement. That is a whole year of saving receipts and remembering so that you don't under report your tax, super.
The essence of these returns is that you figure out how much tax you should owe then compare that to the tax you actually paid. The difference is then what the government cares about, at both levels. I didn't realise that for a bit. It seems much simpler now, after figuring out exactly which form should be filled out (non resident alien, part year resident, resident, etc.) it is pretty straightforward. I can see how people can find this frustrating, but it is mainly just keeping track of the paperwork.
Happily it appears I am due a couple of refunds.
Great how that habit of hoarding every receipt has come in handy!
Posted by: AnxietyCentral | April 14, 2009 at 12:13 AM