As you all may know, taxes are due on April 15th this year. Filing federal and state income taxes may seem intimidating, especially if you haven't done it before. Here are a few tips and tricks to make things easier for you, if this is your first time filing your tax return.

1. Use free tax assistance at your college

Don't pay someone to file your taxes. College students are elible to use the IRS's Free File Program since your annual income is less than $66,000. You can also receive free in-person help through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA program) if your income is less than $54,000. The University of Illinois, along with many other universities, participate in this nationwide VITA program. It is a free service that students can use for any tax guidance, whether it's on campus or in their own community. Getting a head start on your taxes and taking advantage of these resources will make tax season a lot easier.

2. File a return if your paychecks have your taxes withheld

By law, a dependent who has earned less than $12,000 in a tax year does not have to file a return but anyone making an income over this amount must file. Even if you legally aren't required to file a tax return, you still should because the government may owe you money. Make sure to obtain a W-2 form from your employer(s), as proof of employment. The company you work for should send you the form by late January but if they don't, ask for it!

3. You can't claim tax exemptions if you are a dependent

According to the IRS, a dependent must be a "qualifying child or relative" who meets specific conditions (age, income, full-time student status, etc.). Dependents can't claim any exemptions when filing for their own taxes, even if their parents do not claim them either. Most college students are in the dependent category, so students can't claim their own exemption.

4. Start preparing early

The deadline to file for a tax return is April 15, 2019 but prepare in advance, especially if you are a beginner. This will give you enough time to obtain the correct tax documents, review your tax filing status, receive guidance from your parents/professionals.

5. Pay attention to education credits and deductions

If you are a university student, and paying for it, you can even opt for certain deductions when you're filing your tax return. Education tax credits may save you thousands of dollars. If you are repaying your student loans, you can even look at the student loan interest tax deduction. This lets you deduct up to $2500 in interest paid from your taxable income.

6. Sign and date your return

One of the top mistakes made when filing taxes is forgetting to sign and date the tax return. Electronic filing helps reduce errors because it double checks your return, decreasing the chance of an audit. Make sure to also check your math and proofread for any obvious mistakes/omissions. Many errors are made simply from not reading the instructions!

7. Watch out for scams

College students are especially vulnerable to scams, since you are unfamiliar with the process. Be weary of idendity theft, as many tax filers will discover that identity thieves have already filed for refunds. Tax scammers come out during tax season and will reach out to you through email or phone. Always be skeptical, and if you are still unsure, follow up with the IRS directly!

8. Be patient

If you want the fastest turnaround time, you should file online and have your refund deposited directly to your bank account. The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days, but many filers will receive federal refunds in 2 weeks.

Hope these tips help you during this tax season!