Clark Howard’s 2019 tax filing tips

Jacksonville, FL — It’s the great American race – people scrambling to get their taxes done before April 15, 2019.

Consumer Warrior Clark Howard is breaking down a handful of tips to help everyone file their tax returns while also avoiding any scams.

Clark suggests using free file if someone is what he calls a “typical American taxpayer.”

"A person who has not earned what the IRS considers a big amount of money."

Free File is an IRS program that they do with private tax preparation software companies that helps Americans file their federal returns for free as long as they qualify. Click here to learn more about Free File .

Clark says if a taxpayer does not qualify for Free File they can always use Credit Karma.

MORE: Tax Season 2019, Which tax prep solution is right for you? 

Clark says the week of January 28, 2019, is the best week to file taxes. It’s the best time because Clark says this is the start of the season for the IRS – if someone filed before the return didn’t actually get processed until the IRS system officially opens up.

According to Clark, some of the benefits of filing during this week include:

1. You’ll get your return sooner – if you e-filed and chose the direct deposit option.

2. You’ll beat the tax refund thieves – the early bird gets the worm; meaning criminals cannot steal your Social Security number and file a false return.

3. You'll avoid uncertainty around another potential government  – Clark says even though the IRS has reiterated it will process refunds during a shutdown, why leave it to chance ?

Whether you decide to file now or later – Consumer Warrior Clark Howard wants you to be aware of any scams dealing with tax filing season.

RELATED: Here's the most important thing you can do to avoid becoming a tax fraud victim 

Clark wants anyone to double check any voicemails, e-mails, texts and physical mail they get claiming to be from the IRS.

"They will tell you that you owe money right now or you're not going to be eligible to a refund from this year's tax."

Clark says messages like this are ‘phony’ and criminals are just out to get your information. In fact – Clark says that isn’t even how the IRS operates.

"If you do the IRS money they will send you a very dry, very dull letter telling you the amount you owe and how to contact them if you have a question about it."

Clark says if someone ever receives something claiming to be from the IRS always double check the phone number to call before doing so. You can do that by going to www.irs.gov.

LISTEN: Clark Howard's most recent podcast