As you might expect, they are only effective if you take the time and effort to enter all your information, from passwords to credit-card information to all the medications you take, and more.

WSJ: Gathering Vitals Of Your So-Called Scattered Life

Unpack the computer, hook it up and lead it through the sometimes cumbersome startup process, which may involve such delights as having to enter DNS server information from your Internet service provider.

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While the process varies by state, if there's a match you'll typically need to enter personal information, such as your Social Security number and current address.

WSJ: Search for Unclaimed Money

If you are waiting for your return to be processed for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Aid) purposes, you can manually enter your financial info on the website and update that information once the returns are processed.

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Be suspicious of e-mail messages or even sites which ask you to re-enter login, credit card or other information to check your status.

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Just enter a few pieces of information below, and the Taxpayer Receipt will give you a breakdown of how your tax dollars are spent on priorities like education, veterans benefits, or health care.

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