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!

Don’t worry about those business deductions we’ve been tracking for you all year. We’ll automatically include them in your tax return when you file with us.

To file your taxes with Keeper, you’ll need either the Keeper Annual or Premium subscription.

When Can You File with Keeper?

Missed the April 15, 2024 deadline for your 2023 tax return? No problem! You can still file using our app or web dashboard.

For assistance with your 2022 or 2021 tax returns, our premium membership provides access to our 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!

For compliance with IRS regulations, Keeper needs to confirm your identity when submitting your tax returns through our platform. Before forwarding your return to the IRS, you will be prompted to respond to three random security questions.

You'll be given one hour to answer the questions. If that time elapses, fresh questions will be presented.

If you're unsure of the answers, you can leave the filing flow and return later. Upon your return, new questions will be provided.

If you get a possible audit risk found notification; this may mean you need to go back to the name, SSN, and address sections — please go into the filing flow under Household details to double-check your entries for each section. 

 

If you don't encounter the above error notification, when your return is ready for you to confirm amounts, you'll be asked the three questions to validate your identity right before you submit your tax return to the IRS.

Here are sample questions of what it looks like below:

 

 

A Taxpayer Identification Number is the unique number the Internal Revenue Service uses to identify you and track your tax obligations. The two primary types of TINs are Social Security Numbers (SSN) and the Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN).

• Social Security Number (SSN): An SSN is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s primarily used for Social Security benefits and other government programs, but it’s also used as a TIN for tax purposes. SSNs are typically assigned to US citizens, permanent residents, and other individuals authorized to work in the United States.
• Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to individuals who are required to have a US taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for an SSN. ITINs are primarily used by nonresident aliens, foreign nationals, and dependents or spouses of US citizens or residents without SSNs. ITINs enable these individuals to meet their tax filing and reporting obligations.
• How to use when filing: When you’re working through our filing flow, you can use either of these numbers if you’re asked for your Social Security Number or TIN.

 

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Not everyone has a Social Security number. But they still need to file taxes.

In this scenario, you’ll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file your return. You can learn more about this in our article, “What Is an Individual Tax ID Number (ITIN) and How to Get One.” 

Once you have your ITIN number, head over to the “File Taxes” tab in the app to get started with your return.

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, visit this link.

 

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:

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.

How do I make changes if I already submitted my return for review?

When you submit your return for review, your return will be locked and you won't be able to make any changes until the review is finished. Do not worry! If you need to make edits, you can message your tax assistant, and we’ll be happy to help. You can also unlock your return yourself!

Once the review process is done, go back to the File Taxes tab and you'll see a page stating that your return has passed our 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 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 any help or want to make sure you are sending the correct forms, send us an email support@keepertax.com. We’re happy 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.

 

 

 

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, ask your tax assistant. 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.

 

 

 

At Keeper, we automatically file an extension on your behalf if you complete the tax filing menu and submit your return to us for review prior to the tax filing deadline on April 15th.

Please note that to benefit from this service, you must submit your return to us for review first. We'll take care of the rest, helping you navigate the tax season with ease.

 

It's important to note that we do not currently offer a standalone service for filing extensions. We recommend completing the filing process in our File Taxes menu and submitting your information for review as soon as possible. If you prefer to file an extension yourself, the IRS has a helpful page with resources to guide you through the process.

 

What happens if I am unable to file an extension before the deadline?

Filing an extension after the tax deadline is not possible. However, it's worth noting that the IRS doesn't always impose penalties! You can find more information about penalties here:

• Failure to file penalties 
• Failure to pay penalties

 

 

Every person who files through our service receives audit resolution support if any issues arise. But what does this involve exactly?

For everyone that files with us, you receive:

• Comprehensive support if issues arise with our software during the filing process. We’ll help diagnose any problems, provide options to correct your tax filing, and assist with correcting your return if the error was on our end.
• If you receive an audit notice, we’ll clarify the reasons behind it and guide you on the necessary follow-up actions.
• Plus, you’ll have year-round access to our team of tax experts, who can answer any questions about audits, audit risks, and strategies to minimize the likelihood of an audit.

This general audit support does not include:

• Amending any type of returns — federal, state, or local.
• Providing any form of audit representation.
• Services not included in our premium plan.

For premium plan users, you receive additional audit support, which includes:

• Professional support: Expert guidance for your interactions with the IRS.

• Amendments for corrections: Need to correct your return? We’ll take care of amending it!

• Collection assistance setup: We’ll help you navigate setting up any necessary collection arrangements.

And don’t forget—you have access to a real tax professional whenever you need one!

There are a few scenarios that we don't cover, and while these circumstances are rare, it's worth noting:

• Coverage of individuals under criminal investigation.
• Large business, or complex business structures (such as those generating multi-million dollar revenues).
• Audits for returns not filed with us.

I received an audit letter. What should I do? 

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. From there, select the tax return you need and choose the option to email a copy to yourself. You will receive an email with a link to download your return.

Please note — this 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. Don't hesitate to reach out if you require further assistance!