Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will I get my refund?
A:
2011 IRS e-file Refund Cycle Chart
You can also try the IRS's Where's My Refund
Q: How do I know if I should give someone a W-2 or a 1099?
A: The IRS uses Common-Law Rules to determine if someone should be given a W-2 or a 1099 for work performed. These rules consist of the following 7 factors:
- Instructions that the business gives to the worker,
- Training that the business gives to the worker,
- The extent to which the worker has unreimbursed business expenses,
- The extent of the worker's investment,
- The extent to which the worker makes his or her services available to the relevant market,
- How the business pays the worker, and
- The extent to which the worker can realize a profit or loss.
For more detailed information on these factors, visit the IRS's website Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee?
Q: Do I need to file a tax return?
A: The IRS's website has a series of yes or no questions that if you answer all of them will tell you if you need to file a tax return for 2010: Do I need to file?
Q: How long should I keep my tax documents?
The IRS has some guidance on this question: How long should I keep records?