April 2, 2005

How To Send Form 4868

Attention . Breaking News!!!

Unless you are filing a Form 4868 (Extension of time to File), two weeks from today your Tax Returns must be mailed (as if you didn't already know that.)

Here are some VERY IMPORTANT notes about HOW TO SEND those forms to the IRS.

Just getting an April 15 postmark, gives you zero proof that you sent, or that they received, your Return. If they lose it inside the IRS, that becomes YOUR problem, unless you can Prove that they Received your Tax Return.

Here is the least expensive way to ensure that you have proof that they received it.

Put everything in a 'USPS 'Flat Rate' Priority Mail Envelope'($3.85 postage). There is a specific envelope you must use for this, and every Post Office has them (there is no cost).

ABSOLUTE MUST: Pay a couple bucks extra for 'Signature Confirmation of Delivery.' That requires the Letter Carrier to use a hand-held device to record the exact time of delivery AND the name of the person who signed for it.

When you send your Flat Rate Priority Mail envelope, you will receive a receipt with a Tracking Number on it. After a few days, go to www.usps.com, and click on 'Track & Confirm.' Fill-in your Tracking Number and then press Enter. You will see the Date and Time it was delivered, and just as important, the name of the IRS employee who signed for it. PRINT OUT THAT PAGE and file it in your 2004 tax file.

This is your proof that they received your Tax Return.

Let me state the obvious. You cannot do this if you wait until 11:59 p.m. on April 15, because guess what? Although some Post Offices will remain open to 'Date/Time Stamp' our envelope, they will NOT be open for the transaction recommended above.

There's another 'Tax Tip You Can Bank On.'

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