The IRS wants to make sure that you have all the information you need to file your taxes, so they have added a few resources to assist the process.

New IRS Resources

• Check the status of your refund. With the taxpayer's name, Social Security number, filing status and refund amount, taxpayers or their preparers can check the status of the refund via telephone at 1-800-829-1954 or online at the Where's My Refund? section of the IRS Web site.

• Consider participating in the IRS Free File program. An agreement signed two months ago between the IRS and a consortium of participating tax software companies means more than 78 million Americans will be eligible for free tax preparation and electronic filing this year. The Free File program will be available on the IRS Web site.

• Follow changes to the tax law. Publication 553, Highlights of 2002 Tax Changes, will provide detail on tax law changes of interest to individuals and businesses. An updated Publication 553 will soon be available on the IRS Web site.

• New phone numbers to streamline the process. Small businesses, corporations, partnerships and trusts that need help or information related to business returns can call 1-800-829-4933. Individuals needing tax help can call 1-800-829-1040 to speak to a customer service representative or arrange a visit at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. Individuals can call 1-800-829-4477 to hear prerecorded tax information. Individuals, businesses and tax professionals can call 1-800- 829-3676 to order forms, instructions and publications.