Now that holiday season is upon us, it’s the perfect time to plan for tax relief. That’s right, as the end of the calendar year approaches, you should be thinking about April 15, tax day. Most people tense up when they imagine paying taxes, but it does not have to be such a torturous event, especially if you do a bit of planning right now.

Probably the best single thing you can do to prepare for tax filing season is to collect all the documents you will need. Even though W-2 forms have not arrived yet, there are plenty of papers that should be put in a labeled file drawer. Gather up any charitable donation receipts you might have, as well as any documentation for medical and education expenses. Even if you are not sure whether a particular item will be needed, go ahead and file it anyway. It might come in handy for computational purposes if nothing else. Tax relief is just a few months away.

If you have an Individual Retirement Arrangement, there are some new rules for those as well. For one thing, contribution levels have gone up, so it is best to take advantage of this one area where the federal overseers are cutting us drones a little slack. Some married couples can deduct up to $12,000 for IRA contributions, though your mileage may vary. Check your specific status at the government’s website, www.irs.gov. If you are new to the work force, or are older and just never got around to setting up an IRA, this is the time to create one. Financial gurus call IRAs the best, safest way to prepare for your future. Contact your bank and fill out the simple forms as soon as possible. Thank yourself later.

Charitable deductions add up, and can be another way to lower your taxable income. New laws now require you to have, if the IRS requests, documentation of each charitable donation. That proof can be from the charity itself in the form of a letter, or a bank statement. Be certain to get any charity’s official tax ID number before donating. Just to be on the safe side, it is a good idea to do some background research on any charity you plan to help.

By taking care of the above-mentioned items, as well as checking the IRS website for regulations that apply to your unique situation, you will be ready for April’s most stressful week. Tax relief is just around the corner.

Seeking tax relief from the IRS? Contact Guardian Tax Resolutions. The Guardian will help you resolve your tax issues and get you the piece of mind that you deserve.