It is tax season once again and for many this comes as a very stressful time. Bill Brunson with the IRS says first and foremost you need to be aware of the American Tax Payer Relief Act which Act gives permanence to the lower rate of much of the Bush tax cuts, while retaining the higher tax rate at upper income levels. It became effective at the start of this year.

When you are ready to file your tax return the IRS recommends you get all of your necessary forms including the statements from previous employers and receipts. If you do not receive your W-2 by Feburary 14th the IRS urges you to call them so that they can help you retrieve the form.

They say to also file your tax return on or before April 15th even if you have not yet received your W-2. Brunson says the quickest and most reliable way to file your taxes is electronically. "It's accurate in the sense that the software will do the math for you. It's secure in the sense that if you have a refund coming you will get it sooner, "said Brunson.