You will have several options for payment of your refund.

You will have several options for payment of your refund. By the end of January, you should have had all your checks and receipts broken down in each envelope by deduction category. If you don't have all your numbers, just put your name and address on the form. That's how much you've spent in each deduction category. Throw all of your receipts into a file or even a shoebox. The 8-14 week turn-around time is an approximation only. You add up the receipts and checks don't double count!, and that's the number you use on your return or give to your preparer. The On-line Filing Program will accept no more than three returns from one computer address.

Complete lines 70b, c, and d of your Form 1040, and, coupled with an e-filed return, in theory you could have your refund in your bank account in as little as 24 hours. Some states also charge penalty fees for late submissions. And, with this system, you never have to fear an audit. You are required by law to report all income earned in the U.

Sometimes, the raw data you have is going to be wrong. If you file your amended return after April 1, you should receive your refund by December 1. However, it is to your benefit to file as early as possible. On the income side, you're required to report any and all interest and dividends received, even if you don't receive a Form 1099.

When you reconcile your checking account, on a monthly or at least a quarterly basis, you break down the checks and receipts according to the categories you selected.