How can you be money smart through tax season?

Tax time doesn’t have to be stressful. Paul F. Goebel, senior director of campus life and founding and managing director of UNT’s award-winning Student Money Management Center, advises that the key to low-anxiety tax returns is starting early, being organized and getting help if needed.

Goebel works to help students develop and strengthen their money management skills. In addition to  reminding us that this year tax returns are due April 18 — a three-day extension to allow for April 15 being a legal holiday in the District of Columbia — he offers the following tips to help you prepare your return this tax season.

Understand

• The tax code is ever-changing, so be sure to research what changes have been made and how they may affect your tax return.
• Seek out professional counsel, advice and assistance to receive the benefit of professionals’ knowledge of all possible deductions and credits.

Prepare

• Don’t procrastinate. Waiting until the last moment will add an unnecessary burden of stress and frustration to the process.
• Get organized. Unnecessary delays may occur if you have to request forms, receipts and other documents you need to file your return.

Put your refund to work

• Use a tax refund for a pre-determined financial goal or a priority you have already identified.
• Pay off debt or increase an emergency fund for quick access to cash reserves during challenging economic times.
• Invest the funds by depositing them into a savings account, a 401(k) or Roth IRA to make your money work harder for you.