What is a 1040A?

A 1040A is a form that is used by an individual to file his income tax return. This form requires that taxpayers meet certain filing criteria and is often referred to as the "short form" due to its lack of specific details.

An individual who files his taxes using a 1040A form cannot itemize his deductions and must use the standard deductions allowed by the IRS. This form does not allow for an individual to own a business. In addition, the taxpayer cannot have a taxable income of over $100,000. If any of these criteria exist, the taxpayer is required to use a different form.