Jackson Hewitt(R) Offers Tax Tips for the Millions of Americans Who Procrastinate on Their Taxes

JERSEY CITY, NJ--(Marketwired - Apr 14, 2016) -  By not filing taxes millions of Americans are missing out on their hard-earned refund. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Uncle Sam currently holds refunds totaling $950 million from people who did not file taxes in 2012. With 4 days until the April 18 tax filing deadline, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service® encourages taxpayers to avoid making costly mistakes.

"Procrastinating can be costly for do-it-yourself filers, who may be unaware that they qualify for valuable tax breaks," said David Prokupek, CEO of Jackson Hewitt. "Our tax professionals are open late to help our clients get their maximum refund, guaranteed."

To assist late filers, Jackson Hewitt provides the following important tips to prepare for filing:

• Gather all necessary tax documents - Make sure to locate all your tax documents, including: W-2s, any 1099s. Be sure to include any mortgage interest and real estate taxes, charitable contributions and medical expenses as well. Using a copy of last year's return may also help in gathering your records. Jackson Hewitt provides an online checklist of items needed for filing a tax return.
• Don't overlook life changes - In addition to the tax law changes, don't forget about any life changes that may drive new tax benefits. Keep in mind that if you got married, divorced or adopted a child / children this year the name the Social Security Administration has on file must match the name on all identification and income information.
• Ask about extensions - By requesting an extension, you can postpone your return until October 15, 2016, and avoid the failure to file penalty. Taxpayers should note that an extension does not give additional time to pay any taxes owed. A professional tax preparer can help assess whether there are taxes due and determine whether filing an extension is needed.

Through the end of tax season, Jackson Hewitt will offer extended hours at many of its 6,300 neighborhood locations -- with more than 3,000 in Walmart stores. To make an appointment or to find the nearest location, call 1 (800) 234-1040 or visit www.JacksonHewitt.com.

About Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc.
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc. is the fastest-growing full-service tax preparation company, with a mission of offering its hard-working clients access to simple, low-cost solutions to manage their taxes and tax refunds. With more than 25,000 Tax Professionals, Jackson Hewitt is devoted to helping clients get ahead with Maximum Refund and 100% Accuracy Guarantees. Jackson Hewitt is convenient, with approximately 6,300 franchised and company-owned locations, including 3,000 Walmart locations, and online and mobile tax solutions. For more information about products, services and offers, or to locate your neighborhood Jackson Hewitt office, visit www.JacksonHewitt.com or call 1 (800) 234-1040.