Rich Habits Podcast

163: Why Tax Season Shouldn't Intimidate You

Mar 30, 2026
They unpack why tax season triggers anxiety and how to simplify filing with a clear checklist of documents. Practical tips cover using extensions, payment plans, and when to consult a tax pro. They spotlight top credits to claim, year-round record keeping, and tech tools like AI to explore tax optimization.
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ADVICE

Hunt Tax Credits First

  • Prioritize tax credits because they reduce taxes dollar for dollar; check Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Saver's Credit.
  • Robert lists specifics: EITC up to $8,046 for MFJ with three kids under AGI thresholds, Child Tax up to $2,200 per child, Savers Credit up to $2,000 for eligible contributors.
ADVICE

Create A Yearly Tax Folder

  • Start a yearly tax folder (physical or digital) on January 1 and put every tax-related document in it.
  • Austin scans mail, emails items to himself, and stores them in a year-labeled Google Drive so April isn't a scramble.
ADVICE

Choose Your Filing Method Early

  • Decide your filing method before tax season: DIY software, CPA, or IRS Free File if AGI under limits.
  • Austin notes software costs ~ $100, CPAs are pricier, and IRS Free File is genuinely free for eligible incomes.
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