Once April 15 passes, it’s easy to stop thinking about taxes. But a few simple follow-up steps can save time, money, and stress down the road, advises DunlapSLK, a CPA and business advisory firm based in Chalfont.

A key focus is recordkeeping. While the IRS generally has three years to audit a return, that window can stretch to six years in certain situations, and even longer in rare cases. That’s why it’s smart to keep copies of your tax returns indefinitely and hold onto supporting documents — like receipts, W-2s, and 1099s — for at least several years. Having those records easily accessible can save you significant stress if questions ever come up.

Staying organized year-round is also paramount. Instead of scrambling to gather documents next spring, taxpayers — especially freelancers, business owners, or anyone who itemizes deductions — should consistently track expenses, mileage, and charitable contributions. Building that habit now makes the next filing season faster, cleaner, and more accurate.

Another smart move is reviewing your withholding and estimated tax payments. If you owed money this year, it could be a sign that you’re not paying enough throughout the year. On the flip side, a large refund might mean you’re overpaying and giving the government an interest-free loan. Changes like a new job, side income, or family shifts are all good reasons to revisit your numbers and make adjustments.

Finally, if you receive a notice from the IRS, don’t ignore it. Most letters are routine and can be resolved quickly, but delaying a response can lead to bigger issues.

If you have questions on what files to keep and for how long or how to adjust withholding or estimated tax payments, DunlapSLK can help.