The tax laws get more complicated each year. The number of tax codes in existence is mind-boggling. It's no wonder taxpayers have questions about what they can and cannot claim on their taxes. So what is a person to do? Here is some advice on where to find the answers to the questions you have.

The biggest source of information on taxes will come from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is their job to monitor tax issues and put into effect new tax laws. The first line of inquiry for tax questions is to them. All of the answers to the following questions can be found in various places on their website.

What form do I fill out? Most people will fill out the 1040 form. This form is for filers who do not have to itemize their deductions. It is straightforward and the only form you may need. On the IRS website, look up the PDF file "Form 1040" for more information.

People that itemize their deductions instead of using a standard deduction will need to use the 1040A form. This form allows them to list amounts for each itemized deduction they can claim. Again, on the IRS website, look up the PDF file "Schedule A" to find the correct form, and "Instructions for Schedule A" to learn about filling it out.

What if I have given my old car to a charity? Charitable contributions are always a hot topic. Everyone wants to know what they can get for the donations they have made each year. If your contributions are not in the form of cash, there is a form you need to fill out to deduct their value. The PDF file "Form 8283" is what you need to find. There are instructions that go along with the form.

Do I need to itemize? Itemization will only benefit you if the amount that you spent for legitimate deductions is over what is specified in the guidelines. Even then, if the amount that you will be able to deduct overall is less than the standard deduction amount, the standard deduction would be better. To learn more about itemized deductions, consult Tax Topic 501. Certain deductions have their own forms, such as Form 4684 for losses due to theft or casualty, and Form 2106 for employee business expenses.

Do I qualify for the earned income tax credit? This tax credit was developed to help low income families keep more of the money they make in their pocket instead of in Uncle Sam's. Qualified individuals could receive anywhere from $400 to over $4,000 in tax credit. If this credit is more than they owe the IRS in any given year, a refund is due to them. To learn if you qualify for the earned income tax credit or how to apply, consult the EITC Assistant.

Answers to basic and more complicated questions can be found through the IRS and their affiliate links. It does take a little practice to navigate the site but you can do it. There is a handy search box to enter keywords if you have an idea of what you are looking for.

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