Electronic filing has made it quicker and easier than ever to prepare and file your taxes; however, simple mistakes can delay the processing of your return and your refund. According to the Internal Revenue Service, the following are among the most common errors people make when filing their personal taxes.

Incorrect Social Security Number or Name:

Your name and social security number must be entered exactly as they appear on your Social Security card. If you have had a legal name change, be sure to contact the Social Security Administration for an updated card. When entering the Social Security number for your spouse or children, be sure to verify the information against the card instead of relying on your memory. Also, double-check your entry to make sure that you did not transpose any information.

Using the Wrong Filing Status:

Choosing the correct filing status may seem like a simple task; however, many filers make mistakes, such as choosing “head of household” instead of “single.” The IRS website offers an interactive tool to help you choose the correct filing status.

Math Mistakes:

If you are preparing your taxes by hand, double and triple-check your addition and subtraction and make sure that you are using numbers from the correct lines on the form. Tax preparation software is the best way to avoid this type of error since the software automatically does the math for you.

Overlooking Credits or Deductions:

Many filers leave money on the table by failing to claim credits or deductions to which they are entitled. The IRS’s interactive tax assistant can help you determine if you qualify for Child and Dependent Care, Earned Income, and other frequently overlooked credits.

Incorrect Bank Information:

Direct deposit is the quickest and safest way to get your refund. Be sure to double-check your routing and account number to ensure that your refund ends up in the appropriate place.

Missing Signature:

Your return must be signed and dated in order to be valid. When filing a joint return, the signature of both parties is required.

Complete Tax and Notary Service has been providing individuals and businesses with customized tax and accounting solutions since 1999. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.