9 Common Filing Errors to Avoid [+Checklist]

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The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2023 (returns filed in 2024).

If you make an error on your tax return, it will likely take longer for the IRS to process it. This could delay your refund, cost you extra time and effort to correct, or even lead to a painstaking audit. Luckily, most errors are easy to avoid if you know what to look for. 

Here are nine common errors to avoid when preparing a tax return:

9 Common Tax Filing Errors

1. Missing or Inaccurate Social Security Numbers (SSN).

Be sure to enter each SSN on your tax return exactly as printed on the Social Security card. Missing or inaccurate SSNs can cause delays in processing your return–including any refunds you may be owed. 

2. Misspelled Names or Name Changes.

Spell all names listed on a tax return exactly as listed on that individual’s Social Security card. If you or someone in your household has changed their name recently, contact the Social Security Administration to report the change. You’ll need to file Form SS-5.

Double-check that any W-2 forms or 1099 forms also reflect the name change. You will need to contact your employer (or client) to ask them to correct the forms with your new name. When you go to file, be sure to include a copy of Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement from your employer, or a corrected Form 1099 with your tax return.

Note: The spelling of your name on your tax return will be used on any refund check the IRS issues you.

3. Filing Status Errors.

Choosing the right filing status is important because it affects whether you’re required to file a return, your standard deduction amount, what credits you can claim, and how much tax you owe. There are five filing statuses to choose from: 

• Single
• Married filing jointly
• Married filing separately
• Head of household
• Qualifying widow or widower with a dependent child

However, it isn’t always clear which filing status best applies to your situation. For instance, some people claim the wrong filing status, such as Head of Household instead of Single. Use the Interactive Tax Assistant on IRS.gov to check what filing status is right for you. Or,  e-file through ezTaxReturn, which walks you through the process to ensure you choose the correct status with the biggest possible refund. 

4. Miscalculations.

Math errors are common. They range from simple addition and subtraction to more complex items. Transactions like figuring out the taxable portion of a pension, IRA distribution, or Social Security benefits are more difficult and often result in more errors. 

Taxpayers should always double-check their math. Better yet, tax preparation software does it automatically, so file electronically. ezTaxReturn offers free tax filing for simple returns.  Start my return!

5. Errors in Figuring Tax Credits or Deductions.

It’s easy to make mistakes figuring out your Earned Income Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, the standard deduction, and other items. Errors like selecting the wrong filing status or accidentally claiming a child that doesn’t qualify can lead to an audit, delayed refund, or rejection of your credit or deduction. That’s why it’s important to follow the instructions carefully. 

ezTaxReturn can help you determine if you are  eligible for tax credits or deductions so you can claim the biggest possible refund.

6. Incorrect Bank Account Numbers.

The IRS strongly urges all taxpayers who have a refund due to choose direct deposit. It’s safe, easy, and convenient–plus you can even have the IRS deposit your refund in up to three accounts. The fastest and safest way to get a refund is to combine e-file with direct deposit.

But be careful to use the right routing and account numbers on the tax return. The IRS will try to verify your account before sending the refund, but if you input a number that belongs to someone else, they may get the funds deposited to their account instead. If that happens, you’ll have to work with your bank to recover the refund. 

Check the status of your refund using the IRS Where’s My Refund? tool. 

7. Forms Not Signed.

An unsigned tax return is like an unsigned check – it’s not valid. Both spouses must sign a joint return. You can avoid this error by double-checking your IRS forms and filing your return electronically. Filing electronically requires your digital signature before sending the return to the IRS. 

ezTaxReturn makes filing your taxes fast, easy, and pain-free. With free customer support and step-by-step guidance, ezTaxReturn walks you through the filing process and prompts you if you miss anything.  

8. Electronic Filing PIN Errors.

When e-filing, you will sign and validate your tax return electronically with a prior-year Self-Select Personal Identification Number. If you do not have or know your PIN, enter the Adjusted Gross Income from last year’s tax return. 

Keep a copy of your tax return. Taxpayers using a software product for the first time may need their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) amount from their prior-year tax return to verify their identity. Learn more about how to verify your identity and electronically sign tax returns at Validating Your Electronically Filed Tax Return. Do not use the AGI amount from an amended return or a return that the IRS corrected.

9. Filing with an expired ITIN.

If you file your  tax return with an expired Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), it is considered filed on time, but will be processed without any exemptions or credits claimed. 

To receive your refund, you will need to renew your ITIN. Taxpayers will receive a notice from the IRS explaining that an ITIN must be current before any refund is paid. Once the ITIN is renewed, exemptions and credits are processed, and any refund paid. ITIN expiration and renewal information is available on IRS.gov.

Common Filing Errors Checklist

• Missing or inaccurate SSNs
• Misspelled names or name changes.
• Wrong filing status.
• Miscalculations.
• Tax credit or deduction errors.
• Incorrect bank account numbers.
• Forms without signature.
• E-filing PIN errors.
• Expired ITIN.

E-filing your taxes is the safest and most accurate way to file a return. ezTaxReturn offers free tax filing for anyone with a simple return. 

The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.