For filing the tax returns, this year in 2010, the taxpayers will have until Tuesday, April 17 to file their 2011 tax returns and pay any tax due.
The reason for this extension is because April 15 falls on a Sunday, and Emancipation Day, a holiday observed in the District of Columbia, which according to federal law, affects the tax deadlines in the same way that federal holidays do, falls this year on Monday, April 16. For the taxpayers who apply for an extension have until Oct. 15, 2012 to file their 2011 tax returns. This year for tax filing in 2012, the IRS will begin accepting e-file and Free File returns on Jan. 17, 2012.

So, for preparing your tax returns on time & without hassle, here are a few preparations that will help you.

For filing a Tax form, you need to consider various things like:

-The filing status: Resident Alien, Non-Resident Alien or Dual-Status Alien

There can be various circumstantial outcomes when you are a resident alien, non-resident alien or dual-status alien. In most cases non-resident aliens and dual-status aliens need to use different forms. You may need to use the 1040NR or the 1040NR EZ. For more detailed information on that you may want to take a look at Publication 519. This tax publication will help you to understand the requirements needed for you to comply with the United States tax laws.

-1040 Federal Income Tax Form Due Date is April 17th, 2012

Generally, by the due date you have to file an income tax return . But what if I didn’t get it done in time, you can file for an extension using tax Form 4868. You must file this tax form by the original due date. But, a very important thing to remember is that if you owe tax, you can't extend that. You must pay on time with the extension. The extension will give you six months to send in the paperwork but, if you owe, you must pay on time or else you will incur penalties and interest on what monies you owe.

- If you need help in filing tax form 1040 or any other tax form

There is whole lot of information available on the website irs.gov, but even then if you need information & help in filing, you can always choose softwares like Turbotax which not only helps you make your tax return, but also provides you with 24*7 help for any question you have and guarantees you the best refund!! the features are endless!

So, gear up & file your tax returns or extensions by April 17, 2012 & all the best for the biggest refund!!