The tax deadline is hours away. Here are some last-minute tax tips:
Free tax help: If you make $56,000 or less, you are eligible for free online tax preparation through Free File, an alliance between the IRS and tax companies. Go to www.irs.gov to use Free File.
Marylanders with incomes up to $42,000 can get free tax preparation from volunteers. Find locations by calling First Call For Help at 800-492-0618.
Drop-off at IRS: The IRS will set up tables outside its Baltimore office at 31 Hopkins Plaza from 9 a.m. to midafternoon to collect federal tax returns and to accept requests for a filing extension. With an extension, your tax return will be due Oct. 15, but you still must pay any taxes owed by midnight Wednesday to avoid late-payment and interest penalties.
Mailing options: If you don't file electronically, your return must be postmarked by midnight April 15 to make the IRS deadline. Baltimore's main post office, 900 E. Fayette St., is the only post office in Maryland that's staying open until midnight.
The U.S. Postal Service also warns filers to check the last pickup time if they are dropping their return in a mailbox on the street. You don't want to be late with your return because you missed the last collection.
