Avoiding filing? Don’t do it! Waiting to pay your taxes is almost never a good idea. Filing right away can save you money in more than one way.

We have all been there – the holidays come and go and the next thing you know, tax season is upon you. As you began to sort through your financial information, you feel a sense of dread knowing you are going to incur significant tax debt. You think, even if just for a brief moment, that maybe you should just wait to file your tax return. But believe it or not, filing and paying your taxes can actually save you significant time and money – making tax debt relief that much closer. Here’s why:

It is possible that you are entitled to personal exemptions, deductions, or credits that can lower your tax debt. But you will never know if you avoid filing! By submitting your tax return, you may realize you are entitled to benefits you were not previously aware of. Getting one of these deductions or credits can be a great way to obtain tax debt relief!

Failing to file a return or even filing late can cost you. If you owe taxes, you can expect to pay late fees and interest charges that can increase your tax debt by 25% or more.

It is also possible that you will find after filing your tax return that you are entitled to a tax refund. If this is the case, this money can be used to pay back previously accrued tax debt, making tax debt relief that much easier to obtain.

If obtaining complete tax debt relief is your number one goal, filing your taxes on time is always your best bet and the easiest way to avoid fees and collection calls. Additionally, the only way to be tax debt free is to establish how much money you owe and then use that information to formulate a strategic plan to eliminate your tax debt and obtain relief!