The temperatures are rising; the birds are returning; the trees are waking up. Spring is arriving. That means it's time to break out the shorts and sandals, head outdoors ... and face the tax man.

Whether you'll be boosting your savings with a check from the government, or draining the account to pay off the IRS, time is running out to file your taxes. April 17 — the deadline to file — is fast approaching.

While most of our W-2 forms arrived more than two months ago, countless taxpayers wait until the last minute to file every year, particularly those who will be sending money the government's way. So which is it for you? Are you getting some cash back, or making some sacrifices to pay off the bill?

Having the right person to sort through all the forms and deductions can be a huge relief during a stress-filled time of the year. Patch attempted to help such procrastinating readers with some ideas of where to take their tax forms at the last minute.

Coventry Patch readers chose Judith Hetherman & Co., 110 Arnold Road, Coventry, but there are plenty of options out there. Check out the Patch Directory for a full listing of local tax preparers — and just about anything else you want to find in town — and don't forget to get your taxes filed this week!

Each week Coventry Patch will post a quick reminder about the events, activities or important tasks whose deadlines have come. Do you know about an important upcoming deadline? Share it in the comments below and we’ll consider including it in our next Last Chance post. Or, post your own events and announcements.