A tax return is a formal declaration of your income, expenses, and other financial information to tax authorities. Here's a comprehensive guide on filing your taxes correctly.

Required Documents for Tax Returns:

• Income statements (W-2 forms, 1099s)
• Receipts for deductible expenses
• Social Security numbers for you and dependents
• Previous year's tax return
• Bank account information
• Investment income records
• Charitable donation receipts

Who Must File a Tax Return:

• Employees earning above the minimum threshold
• Self-employed individuals
• Freelancers and contractors
• Business owners
• Investment income earners
• Retirees with taxable benefits

Filing Requirements by Employment Type:

For Employees:

• General income tax return (Form ESt 1 A or V)
• Non-self-employment income documentation (Attachment N)
• Retirement expenses documentation

For Freelancers:

• General income tax return (ESt 1 A)
• Self-employment income records (Attachment S)
• Income surplus calculation (Attachment EÜR)
• Retirement expense documentation

For Business Owners:

• General income tax return (ESt 1 A)
• Commercial operations income (Attachment G)
• Trade tax documentation (GewSt 1 A)
• Income surplus calculation if revenue is under €800,000 and profit under €80,000
• Retirement expense documentation

Filing Deadlines and Processing:

• Standard deadline: July 31 of the following year
• Extended deadline with tax advisor: February 28/29 of the second following year
• Processing time varies by tax authority and complexity
• Refunds typically processed within 2-6 weeks after acceptance

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