How to Avoid Common Tax Filing Mistakes

Take care when preparing and filing your income taxes. An omission or error on the computer tax software or paper tax forms can result in a delay of your refund check or cost you money. Know what to watch for when you prepare your tax forms, and make a checklist to avoid common tax-filing mistakes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Claim the correct filing status and check the appropriate exemption boxes to avoid common tax-filing mistakes.

2. Calculate your taxes correctly, and use the correct tax table and filing status column. Use a calculator or tax software program that will do the math, and double check every amount you enter for correctness.

3. Follow charitable donation tax rules. Check the tax-exempt status of the organization before you donate, and obtain receipts for all contributions.

4. Write your taxpayer numbers correctly on your tax forms. Use the preprinted label and pre-addressed mailing envelope provided in your tax packet.

5. Check and recheck your direct deposit account and routing numbers to avoid common tax-filing mistakes. Your refund could go to somebody else if the numbers are wrong.

6. Sign and date your tax form, and include a check or money order for money owed to the IRS to avoid common tax-filing mistakes.

7. File your tax return no later than April 15, or submit form 4868 to request an extension of at least six months. Penalties apply to money owed to the government beginning April 16.

Tips & Warnings

• Draw a line through incorrect information on the preprinted label, and neatly write in the correct information.
• Write the tax year, your tax form number and your Social Security number on the check or money order when you pay owed taxes to the IRS.