DIY Tax Filing vs. Hiring a Professional

The IRS commissioner doesn't even do his own taxes. Should you? Financial expert David Bach explains the pros and cons.

By David Bach

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The single biggest mistake people make is not itemizing their deductions. The government estimates that the average American leaves $400 to 500 on the table by not itemizing.

Records to keep all year:

Healthcare expenses
Interest on mortgage payments
Business expenses
Home improvements
Record of all investment trades
Charitable donations

Download Chapter 1 of Bach's book Start Over, Finish Rich

Photo: Polka Dot/Thinkstock

Published on March 15, 2010

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