Kight: Income tax deadline nears

"In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes."

- Benjamin Franklin

This famous quote attributed to Benjamin Franklin has never been truer than when tax deadline approaches each year and we are reminded it is time to file - and perhaps pay up.

The bad news is that the IRS tax deadline is coming up. The good news is you still have time to file. The IRS has extended the traditional deadline of April 15 to April 18 this year. These extra days are a nice cushion, but if you haven't filed, it is time to start the process.

► Preparing yourself

First, make sure you have all the tax documents you need. Make sure to locate all your W2s, 1099s, 1098s, and other documents needed to show your income. Next, make sure to gather your receipts for any deductions you plan to take for last year. Finally, figure out how you want to file.

► Filing on paper

The IRS no longer sends out the paper tax package to your home. It now is the taxpayer's responsibility to find his or her own forms. You can choose to file by mail with paper forms, file online through a website or go to a CPA or tax preparer's office.

If you plan to file by snail mail, you need to know where to find the forms. The easiest way to obtain forms is to download them from the IRS website: www.irs.gov/formspubs. If you do not have a computer or a printer, you can pick up the forms from the local IRS office (355 E. Hancock Ave.) or you can get the most basic forms from the post office on Olympic Drive.

If you have Internet access, there is an option to fill in your forms and then print them out at www.freefilefillableforms.com/ FFA/Gateway.htm.

It is important that you at least file your taxes before the deadline of April 18. You usually can set up a payment plan if you file the proper paperwork. The penalties for not filing are much higher than the interest you pay with an installment plan. If you cannot file by April 18, make sure to file for an extension. Most CPAs this time of year have stopped filing and only file extensions so the work load is manageable.

If you are filing by mail, the post office on Olympic Drive will be open until 6 p.m. April 18.

If you need a later closing time to get your taxes postmarked April 18, the post office at Cumberland Mall in Atlanta will be open until 9 p.m.

► Filing electronically

The fastest way to file your taxes is to e-file. The IRS encourages taxpayers to file online. If your Adjusted Gross Income was less than $58,000 last year, you could qualify to file online for free.

The IRS provides a list of companies that participate in "freefile" at apps.irs.gov/app/ freeFile/jsp/index.jsp.

Make sure to read the terms of the company you choose. These companies normally will file your federal return for free, but will try to upsell you to pay for online tax advi