Federal taxes have been around for over 100 years (since 1913), and the IRS has been around even longer (since way back in 1862). But that doesn’t mean managing your taxes needs to be an archaic process.
To help you keep your taxes up to speed with the digital world, the IRS allows you to register for an online account where you can view important information about your federal tax account, such as your payoff amount, the balance for each tax year for which you owe taxes, payment history, payment plan details, and more.
At Shaw & Associates, we recommend alongside the IRS that you set up an online federal tax account. Here’s why:
- Safety and security — Tax records, social security numbers, business financials, and other confidential information should be on file for you, the IRS, and your tax professional to access. An online account with the IRS provides a secure portal to view and manage that personal information with less risk of phone, email, or other scams claiming to be associated with the IRS. The new “authorization” feature also allows you to control who can represent you before the IRS or view your tax records.
- Transparency and visibility — Gone are the days of jumping through hoops or through multiple parties to access your tax information. Through your online account, you have payment history, copies of IRS notices, key information from your most current tax return, and the ability to view the address on file and other details at your fingertips.
- Ease of access — All it takes is a few simple steps and having your information on hand to get started. Taxpayers can register through Secure Access, which is the agency’s two-factor authentication process, and receive an activation code by mobile phone or mail to set up the account.
It’s always prudent to remember that the IRS will never call, send an email, or send text messages asking you to provide account information or login to access a transcript or update your profile. If you are unsure about any unsolicited communication claiming to be the IRS, you should report it right away.
Our highest priorities at Shaw & Associates are to help you better manage your taxes and overall financial health, provide the most up-to-date information surrounding tax laws and regulations, and make sure you have clear visibility into your tax process. As your trusted local tax accountants, we’ve got your back. If you have any lingering questions surrounding setting up an IRS online account (or anything else tax related), don’t hesitate to reach out to us on our website or by phone 970-223-0792 to set up an appointment.
