What a better way to spend the weekend than working on income taxes, right? I usually procrastinate on this until the VERY last minute, but this year I have a different plan. My goal is to get my income taxes ready to be filed this weekend. If you’ve decided to tackle your own taxes this year, you might want to consider doing it the eco-friendly way. Not only will you be living green, but it will also help you to save green. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
1. Use an online tax software program. TaxAct, H&R Block At Home, TurboTax, and Jackson Hewitt) are the top companies that offer this option. Alternately, download the software from one of these sites. This will eliminate the need to purchase a CD containing the software that you’ll use only once and then have to throw it in the landfill.
2. File electronically. Click on IRS e-file at IRS.gov for details. By doing this you will be saving money and trees (paper).
3. Request your refund to be directly deposited into your bank account. Or if you have to make a payment, do it through an electronic funds withdrawal from your bank account or pay by credit card. This will save on paper and if you’re getting a refund, the IRS claims that you’ll get it sooner.
4. Check on your eligibility for income tax deductions if you’ve purchased certain eco-friendly items in the last year. You may qualify for a Residential Energy Credit if you’ve made certain improvements to your home, such as upgrading insulation, windows, doors, furnace, water heater, and more. You may qualify for a credit if you purchased a hybrid vehicle, such as an electric or alternative fuel vehicle.
5. Shred any un-needed documents and papers and recycle the shredded paper, or re-purpose it for a kid’s craft or as bedding in a small animal cage.
6. Follow the basic “Living Green In The Office” strategies that I posted recently.
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