Navigating tax season can be a hassle, but there are ways to make this year’s filing process go as smoothly as possible.

By creating a plan ahead of time, you can stay on track and avoid unnecessary stress throughout the year. To get you started, we’ve gathered some essential advice for successfully navigating this year’s filing season.

1. Stay Organized and Prepared

Starting to organize and prepare for tax season can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With some simple tips and strategies in hand, you’ll be able to navigate this season with ease.

Start by setting aside a specific time for tax preparation. Doing this will help you stay focused and prevent procrastination.

The next step is to select a system that works best for you. This could involve using paper storage, filing cabinets and digital files simultaneously.

2. Stay Up to Date on Any Changes

Staying abreast of changes to the tax code is essential for both you and your clients. Doing so can save a great deal of stress and time when it comes time to prepare your client’s taxes during tax season.

It’s no secret that tax codes evolve frequently, particularly at the federal level. Stay informed by consulting online resources and reading financial literature, business periodicals, and other media about tax law.

3. Make a Plan

Taxes can seem complex, but by taking time to understand tax rules and how they operate, it will make the process smoother for both you and your accountant. Gaining insight into these concepts will give you a better grasp on your current income, tax bracket, as well as allow for maximum retirement contributions, tax credits, and other deductions available to you.

Planning ahead can save time and money in the long run, as it ensures you don’t need to scramble for your tax filing at year-end. With a plan, you’ll maximize deductions, receive any necessary refunds, and avoid penalties.

4. Have a Plan B

If your regular birth control fails or you’re having unprotected sex, an emergency contraceptive can help prevent pregnancy. This includes the morning-after pill (also referred to as a post-coital pill or emergency contraceptive).

Side effects of Plan B may include stomach pain, nausea and heavy menstruation; these should be mild and resolve quickly. If you experience any of these reactions, speak to a healthcare professional who can help decide if the product is suitable for you and offer other alternatives to Plan B’s potential side effects.

5. Have a Plan C

Many business owners take time out during tax season to ponder their tax strategy. This may involve adjustments in income and expenses, deferring or accelerating contributions to retirement or education savings accounts, or calculating investment losses that offset capital gains taxes.

A tax strategy must take into account your personal financial goals, making sure to match up with what’s best for you. This includes deciding how much taxable income you want to reduce each year and making sure your withholding is aligned with that target.

6. Make a Plan D

Tax season can be stressful, but if you have all of your ducks in a row, it can be an effortless process. Plus, who knows – you may even get a tax refund! That means more money in savings for retirement or debt reduction! To ensure the smoothest process possible, make sure your taxes are filed promptly and submitted correctly.

A tax return is the formal documentation that calculates an entity or individual’s earned income and taxes to be paid to either government organizations, or in some cases back to taxpayers. It should not be confused with a tax schedule which serves to report additional calculations and amounts included on a return for taxation purposes.

7. Have a Plan E

Plan E is essential for getting through tax season with confidence. Not having it available when needed can be a real lifesaver during times of high stress.

Take your morning-after pill as soon as possible to ensure its effectiveness, since it delays ovulation by several days. Also, inform your healthcare provider if you experience nausea within two hours after taking the tablet or pass large clots after unprotected sex.