Taxes, Benefits & Filing Responsibilities
Summary
Autistic adults 18+ and parents tax guide. Step-by-step W-2/1099 collection, free e-file software (≤$79k income), quarterly taxes for freelancers, deductions/credits, direct deposit. Goal: file 100% accurately by Feb 15, receive avg $1k refund or owe $0.
Key Points
- Documents: W-2s/1099-NEC by Jan 31 (IRS matches SSN); log into employer portals, email clients; scan to Google Drive + fireproof box; save 4 yrs
- Free software: TurboTax Free, HR Block Free, IRS Free File (≤$79k); VITA in-person (≤$64k, call 211); e-file: 21 days vs 6 wks
- Freelance: 1099-NEC taxed 15.3%; pay quarterly (Apr/Jun/Sep/Jan 15) via IRS.gov; track mileage (67¢/mi, $2k+ value); separate account
- Deductions: Mileage log, home office (sq ft %), medical (>7.5% AGI), EITC (up to $7,830), Savers Credit (IRA); SSI nontaxable, SSDI taxable >$25k
- Escalate for: IRS audit, penalty ($50-$290/form, 25% unpaid tax), missing W-2/1099 after Feb 1, owe >$1k no quarterly paid, identity theft/fraud return
Taxes confuse many parents and autistic young adults because the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sends complex forms and rules change yearly, often leading to fines up to $500, missed refunds averaging $1,000+, or unclaimed disability credits worth thousands. This guide creates a simple "tax machine" with step-by-step collection, free software filing, quarterly payments for freelancers, and every legal deduction explained clearly. GOAL: File 100% accurately by February 15 each year and receive a $1,000+ refund or owe $0 in Year 1 using checklists, calendars, and direct deposit setup.
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