Every tax season is a headache. Americans spend hours putting together their returns, a tedious chore that sometimes results in turning over even more money to the Internal Revenue Service. For many people, though, filing a tax return can be a financial lifeline. Tax refunds can help people catch up on bills, splurge on a vacation or simply pad their savings accounts.
Those refunds are expected to be particularly significant this year. President Trump and the Republican Party passed a series of tax cuts last year that could make the average refund larger than ever. Among the changes are a new tax break for people 65 and older and the ability to deduct much more in state and local taxes. Republicans are hoping that Americans notice these tax cuts and, in return, support the G.O.P. in the fall’s midterm elections.
I have spent much of the past year reporting on the creation of this tax law for The New York Times. Now I’m interested in hearing from readers about how, if at all, policies like a new tax break for overtime pay are shaping their finances. I also want to know how readers experience the tax system more generally. Have you been counting the days until you receive your tax refund? Have you been having trouble getting your tax questions answered by the I.R.S.?
I’ll eagerly read every response to this questionnaire and reach back out to you if I’m interested in learning more about your situation. I won’t publish anything you submit without speaking to you. And I won’t share your contact information outside the Times newsroom or use it for any reason other than to get in touch with you.
Andrew Duehren covers tax policy for The Times from Washington.
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