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Filing Taxes
Filing with Keeper
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Filing with Keeper
Why File with Keeper?
Filing your tax return with Keeper is easy! Our user-friendly system will walk you through the process with straightforward questions. Simply upload your W-2, 1099, investment documents, or any other income forms, and Keeper will take care of everything else!
For self-employed individuals, we've got you covered! We’ll automatically include any business deductions you've tracked in the app throughout the year when you file your taxes with us.
To file your taxes with Keeper, you’ll need one of the following subscriptions:
- Just tax filing ($99/year): This plan is ideal for those who don’t need to track or claim business deductions and simply want to file their taxes with us. It’s perfect for individuals with W-2 income or other sources of income, such as investments, interest, or dividends. This plan also works for those without income but who need to claim certain tax credits.
- Filing + deductions ($199/year): This plan offers free tax filing for both federal and state returns for the current tax year while your subscription is active, covering up to two state returns. You’ll also have access to the app and all its expense-tracking features. If you decide to file elsewhere, you can request an export of the deductions you've tracked throughout the year.
- Premium ($399/year): This subscription includes everything in the Filing + deductions plan, along with additional services like filing amendments, handling prior year returns, providing quarterly tax assistance, and offering personalized support for complex tax situations. While these services aren't available directly in the app, if you're on the Premium plan and need assistance, just let us know, and we will assist with these matters further via email.
When Can You File with Keeper?
Keeper’s tax filing service typically opens in mid-January and lasts until the IRS stops accepting e-file returns for the year. For assistance with past-due tax returns (2021-2023), our Premium plan offers access to our team of tax experts who are ready to help.
How to File with Keeper
Tax filing is available to all Annual and Premium subscribers. As soon as you subscribe, you can file your return.
To file within the app, go to the File Taxes tab. If you prefer using a desktop, log into your account at dashboard.keepertax.com.
Make tax season stress-free—let us handle it for you!
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Filing an extension
If you need more time to file your taxes, Keeper has you covered! We can file an extension for you at no additional cost. To get started, go to the File Taxes tab, where you’ll find a banner at the top that reads, "Need more time? File an extension for free by April 15th." Click on the banner to start the process.
You'll then be guided through a few simple questions to collect the necessary details to file your extension. Once you've answered everything, click Submit to file. Afterward, you can track the status of your extension directly in the File Taxes tab.
Note: You only have one opportunity to file an extension with Keeper. If it is rejected, you won’t be able to resubmit.
We will also automatically file an extension for you if you submit your return for review close to the tax filing deadline. However, if you'd rather file it yourself, the IRS offers a helpful page with resources to guide you through the process.
Be sure to file your extension before the April 15th deadline. If you don’t see the extension banner, feel free to reach out to us for assistance!
What if I miss filing an extension before the deadline?
Once the tax deadline has passed, you can no longer file an extension. If you miss the deadline to file your return and didn't file an extension, you may incur late filing fees. Additionally, if you owe taxes, late payment penalties could apply. However, it’s worth noting that the IRS doesn’t always impose these penalties! You can find more information about penalties here:
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Understanding and tracking your refund
Something doesn’t look right with my refund amount
If your refund isn't adding up, take some time to review all of the information you've reported on your tax return. Have you included all your deductions and reported all your income? Does your return need to be unlocked so you can make changes?
If everything has been entered correctly, the amount of your refund is accurate. If you're ever in doubt, feel free to let us know. We’ll be happy to guide you through any questions.
My refund is not the same as my estimated tax savings
Your estimated tax savings amount is an estimate of how much your tax bill will be reduced by applying all your deductions to your tax return. It is not the same as a tax refund.
You can review how the estimated tax savings amount is calculated by tapping on the amount in the app. You'll be able to review your total deductions and your estimated tax rate to see how the amount is calculated.
Why did my refund amount change?
Sometimes, the IRS may accept your return but make changes to the amount of your refund.
This doesn't happen very often. But if it does, you’ll receive a letter or notice from the IRS explaining why it made the change and offering instructions on how to challenge it if you don't agree with their decision.
As long as the information you include on your return is accurate, there's no reason to be concerned.
How long does it take to receive my refund?
If you’re owed a tax refund, it takes the IRS and state 21 business days on average to process your return and remit payment. However, it may take longer. With that said, many people receive their refund much sooner!
What’s the status of my refund?
You can check the status of your federal refund by:
- Using the online IRS Where’s My Refund? tool
- Calling the IRS at 800-829-1954 during their support hours of 7 AM to 7 PM local time, Monday to Friday.
You can check the status of your state tax refund by visiting your state tax website:
I filed with Keeper and I haven’t received my refund
If you've filed with us and your return has been accepted by the IRS, you can track the status of your refund directly at the IRS website, using the online IRS Where’s My Refund? tool
Keep in mind, refunds on simple returns can be processed in as few as 21 days. But things can take longer if the IRS is running behind or needs to verify any information.
If more than 90 days have passed since you filed your return, we suggest reaching out to the IRS directly at 800-829-1040 to check on the status of your refund. You can also schedule an in-person appointment with the IRS through this link: https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office.
📝 Please note that if you are expecting both federal and state refunds, they may come at different times. Since the IRS and state agencies operate separately, you might receive your federal refund before your state refund, or vice versa.
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How to set up payments and receive refunds for your taxes
Receiving Your Tax Refund
When you file your tax return with us, you’ll need to provide your bank account details. If you’re eligible for a federal and/or state tax refund, the funds will be deposited directly into this account. However, if you prefer not to share your bank information, the IRS or your state’s Department of Revenue will mail you a check for any refund you’re owed.
Paying Your Tax Bill
The bank account you enter on your tax return isn’t just for receiving refunds; it’s also used to pay any taxes you owe. If you have a balance due, the payment will be automatically deducted from this account on the tax deadline, or if the deadline has already passed, as soon as your return is processed.
Setting Up a Payment Plan with the IRS
If you find yourself unable to pay the full amount of taxes due all at once, there's no need to worry. During the filing process, you can select the option to pay later.
Once your tax return has been accepted, you can visit the IRS website directly to apply for a payment plan. It will guide you through creating or signing into your IRS Online Account, where you can manage your tax payments.
By setting up an IRS Online Account, you'll gain access to a wealth of information, including your personal tax details, payment plans, and tax records. You'll also be able to view any notices or letters the IRS has sent you, helping you stay on top of your tax responsibilities.
For more detailed guidance on setting up a payment plan with the IRS, feel free to visit this link: https://www.irs.gov/payments/payment-plans-installment-agreements
Setting Up a Payment Plan with Your State
Many states also offer the option to set up a payment plan for your state taxes. However, the process can vary from state to state. To get started, you'll need to check with your state's Department of Revenue for specific instructions:
Applying for the IRS hardship program
If you're experiencing financial hardship and can't pay your tax bill, the IRS offers several options to help you manage your tax debt. Here's a quick rundown of the steps you can take:
- Offer in Compromise (OIC): This program allows you to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount you owe. To apply, you'll need to complete Form 656, "Offer in Compromise," and Form 433-A (OIC) or 433-B (OIC), which detail your financial situation. Use the IRS's Offer in Compromise Pre-Qualifier tool to see if you might be eligible.
- Installment Agreement: If you can't pay your taxes in full, you can apply for a payment plan. You can request a short-term payment plan (up to 180 days) or a long-term installment agreement. You can apply online using the IRS Online Payment Agreement tool, or submit Form 9465, "Installment Agreement Request."
- Currently Not Collectible (CNC) Status: If paying your tax debt would cause significant financial hardship, you can request to be placed in CNC status. This means the IRS temporarily pauses collection efforts. To apply, you'll need to provide detailed financial information, typically using Form 433-F, "Collection Information Statement."
- Request a Penalty Abatement: If you have a reasonable cause for not paying your taxes on time, you can request a penalty abatement. This can reduce or eliminate penalties. You can submit Form 843, "Claim for Refund and Request for Abatement," or call the IRS to explain your situation.
- Temporary Delay in Collection: If you can't make any payments due to financial hardship, you can request a temporary delay in collection until your financial situation improves.
We recommend contacting the IRS directly to discuss your situation and provide financial information. Remember, it's important to communicate with the IRS as soon as you realize you can't pay your tax bill.
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How to get a copy of my tax return(s)
To access a copy of your tax return, go to the "Past Returns" section under Settings in the app. If you're using a desktop, you can find this section under Tax Filing. You’ll find all tax returns you’ve filed through Keeper, including both current and previous tax years. Simply select the return you need and choose the option to have a copy emailed to you. You’ll receive an email with a link to download your return.
If you uploaded any tax forms during the filing process, you can also download them from this section once your filing is complete.
If you haven't filed your tax return yet but have already submitted it for review, you can download a draft copy once the review is finished. We will notify you when the review is complete, and then you can go back to the File Taxes tab to check if you owe taxes or are due a refund. You’ll also see an option there to email yourself a draft copy of your return before finalizing and submitting it for filing.
📝 Please note — the download link is designed to expire seven (7) days from the time the email is sent as a security measure. Therefore, make sure to save or print your copy promptly. If the link becomes inactive, you can follow these steps again to request another copy.
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Correcting your tax return
I don’t see a deduction that I should have
If you’re missing a deduction, start by double-checking your expenses to make sure it's not hiding somewhere before adding it manually —you don't want duplicates.
If you don't see it, make sure it's been added to your list of expenses. You can manually add the expense in the app or link another card to ensure it's included.
When you head back to your return, your missing expenses will be automatically added in.
Can I still go back and add deductions?
If you've just submitted your tax file for review, you can return to the File Taxes tab once the review is complete and select 'Unlock to make edits.' After unlocking, go to the Deductions tab to add any deductions you missed. Be sure to resubmit your return for review afterward.
If you've already filed and submitted your return to the IRS, the only way to add deductions is by amending your tax return. For more information on how to file an amendment, please visit this link: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/if-you-must-amend-your-return
If you need assistance with filing an amendment, our premium plan includes support for this process.
I can't submit my return for review because a section is highlighted in yellow
If you see a yellow exclamation mark or sections highlighted in yellow, it indicates that there’s missing information needed before you can submit your return for review. Please go back to all the highlighted sections and check the entries associated with the yellow exclamation marks.
When you click on an entry, review all the boxes and questions to see if any are highlighted in yellow that require your attention. Make sure the information in those sections is accurate. Once all the yellow warning signs are gone, you'll be able to submit your return for review.
If you need any further assistance in resolving this issue, don't hesitate to let us know!
How do I make changes if I already submitted my return for review?
Once you submit your return for review, it becomes locked, and no changes can be made until the review is finished. After the review is complete, go to the File Taxes tab and select 'Unlock to make edits' to make any necessary changes. Once you’ve made your updates, be sure to resubmit your return for another review.
When the review is finished, you'll return to the File Taxes tab, where you'll see a confirmation that your return has passed the audit risk review.
Simply click on Next, and it will take you to a page showing your tax file summary. You can edit your return by clicking on Edit at the right side of your tax info.
After that, a message will pop up asking you if you'd like to edit your tax return.
As long as you haven't confirmed the amounts of your return, we’ll get it opened so you can make edits. Be sure to resubmit it when you finish up!
How do I make changes if I already submitted my return to the IRS?
If you need to make any changes to your return, you must file an amended return. Here’s more info on how to file an amended return: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/if-you-must-amend-your-return
Keeper also offers a premium subscription that includes preparing and filing amended returns.
My return was rejected
Maybe there was a typo with your Social Security number, or the IRS thinks something doesn't look right. If your return is rejected, we’ll be sure to let you know as soon as possible. This will come as a notification on the app, under the “File Taxes” tab.
For minor issues, you’ll be able to update your return and resubmit it to the IRS. If the issue is a little more complex, we’ll guide you through all of your options.
The IRS says my social security number was already used
No one wants to hear that their return has been rejected, but it's not the end of the world. Just keep calm and work through it.
If the IRS sends a notice that your Social Security number was already used, you'll want to review your personal details, like name, address, and SSN, to make sure everything is accurate.
If it is, you'll also want to make sure you haven't already filed a return this year. In the rare event that someone else has actually used your Social Security to file, you should contact the IRS to discuss your options moving forward.
You can find more info on the IRS website linked here: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/taxpayer-guide-to-identity-theft
I received an IRS inquiry
The IRS may send a letter requesting a little more information to finish processing your return. This doesn't mean you're being audited, so don't stress.
The notice should clearly state the forms or information they’re seeking, as well as instructions on how to send them in. Take care of these inquiries as quickly as possible, so your return isn't delayed.
If you need assistance or want to double-check that you're sending the correct forms, feel free to let us know. We’re here to help!
I filed with Keeper and I’m being audited
No one ever wants to hear the word audit. Most likely you never will — the likelihood of getting audited is less than 1%.
Still, we want you prepared. If you filed with Keeper, we're here to help answer any questions as you work through collecting all necessary documents to send to the IRS. Our team of tax experts are available to answer all your questions.
Don't assume your audit will be a drawn-out process, or that you'll necessarily receive a higher tax bill at the end. Most audits are done by mail, and you may have been selected for something as simple as making a typo when you entered your income. We all make mistakes.
You should carefully read your IRS audit notice. You might be given the option to:
- Send in supporting documents
- Pay an updated tax bill
- Offer proof as to why the original numbers were actually accurate
Once you’ve gathered all your documentation and sent in your response, the IRS will notify you of the final decision.
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