The tax season often turns out to be crucial as you need to perform many tasks like finding all the relevant documents, organizing your tax forms, filing up the specific ones etc. It’s no wonder that while handling so many tasks within a limited time frame, you tend to commit some mistakes. Here are some effective tips which you must follow to avoid the most common mistakes that people make while filing their tax returns –
• Opt for electronic filing – It is advisable to file the tax returns electronically through IRS free file or e-file. Since the calculations are done by the tax software and the common errors are flagged, chances of errors are reduced. Moreover, the software also prompts the taxpayers for missing information.
• Check out if you have signed the tax return – Though it sounds a bit trite, this is the most common mistake that people tend to commit. You should also remember that if it is a joint return, it needs two signatures – both the spouses should sign, or else, the return will not be accepted. E-filers can sign the document using a self selected PIN or Personal Identification Number. You shouldn’t forget to date the return as well.
• Make sure the paper return is mailed to the right address – If you are filing a paper return, make sure that you put the right address where the return should be mailed. This is important, especially if you don’t want the process to be delayed. Read all the instructions, mentioned in the form thoroughly and fill all the requested numbers accurately, including your social security number.
• Attach all the forms to the front of the return – Paper filers must attach forms like W-2s, or other forms that show tax withholding and other required schedules and forms, in front of the tax returns. If you are claiming any credits that would require special documentation, don’t forget to include the relevant documents in your tax return.
If you keep these facts in mind, you would find it fairly easy to file your tax return without making the common mistakes.
• Make sure the paper return is mailed to the right address – If you are filing a paper return, make sure that you put the right address where the return should be mailed. This is important, especially if you don’t want the process to be delayed. Read all the instructions, mentioned in the form thoroughly and fill all the requested numbers accurately, including your social security number.
• Attach all the forms to the front of the return – Paper filers must attach forms like W-2s, or other forms that show tax withholding and other required schedules and forms, in front of the tax returns. If you are claiming any credits that would require special documentation, don’t forget to include the relevant documents in your tax return.
If you keep these facts in mind, you would find it fairly easy to file your tax return without making the common mistakes.
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