> If you're not done yet - STOP.

Just get an extension. Don't rush. You'll make mistakes.

> Can't pay?

If you've already filed your tax return, expecting to have the money to pay your taxes by April 15th, but don't...

You can either use your credit card to pay it OR just use Form 9465 to arrange for an installment agreement. For more payment strategies, click here.

> Retirement Plan : You can Fund After April 15th.

If you're self-employed, there are still ways to fund your retirement even if you can't pay by April 15th.

1) KEOGH account. If you already have one that was opened before December 31st of last year - you may fund that plan until your tax return due, date, including extensions. (October 15th!)

2) 401(k), TSA, SIMPLE - Although the employee's contributions had to be funded long ago - the employer's contributions made be funded until the due date of your return, including extensions.

Ta Daaa! 3)SEP-IRA - This is the ONE plan you may open and fund all the way up to October 15th as long as you have two extensions, and haven't filed your tax return. I call it the Procrastinator's Retirement Plan

> Filed already?

Now you're getting notices from IRS and your state? Read Chapter 13 of Small Business Taxes Made Easy for the most comprehensive explanation of IRS notices, what they mean and how to respond - and when to worry. [Just kidding, read Chapter 13 and you'll NEVER worry.]

> Filed and you realized that you made a mistake?

Wait for your refund to arrive. Then, simply file and amended return to correct the error. Remember to file the amendment with your state, too. [Read the simple instructions here]

> QUICK REFUND

Net operating loss (NOL) - Form 1045 When you have a net operating loss on this year's tax return, you have to carry the loss back to prior years to get the benefit of it.

If you know how, you could have waived your right to carry it back in order to use it in the future when your income is higher. But, if you didn't specifically include a statement waiving the right to carry your loss back to prior year, you have no choice - you MUST carry it back first, before you can use what's left in the future.

To carry the NOL back and get a quick refund, use Form 1045. It let's you put all three of the past years on one form and flow the numbers across. You can get the refund back in a few weeks, instead of the 3+ months it takes when you use a Form 1040X.

Uh, while the form looks simple, it's not. Please have an experienced tax professional help you prepare it. This will ensure that you DO get your refund soonest.