This tax season I have seen numerous errors by individuals who chose to do their own taxes. When filing returns, mistakes such as the errors listed below can delay both your processing time and your ability to receive your refund within the standard 21 days that the IRS projects. Though many individuals think they are utilizing cost savings measures by doing their own, I will always suggest utilizing a tax professional such as a certified public accountant, or an enrolled agent to complete your taxes. With this in mind here are some of the common errors that I see when individuals file their own returns.

  1. Missing or inaccurate Social Security numbers. Each SSN on a tax return should match the number printed on the social security card for each individual.
  2. Ensure that there are no misspelled names. The name that needs to be on the tax return is the name that is listed on the individual’s social security card to avoid these common errors.
  3. In regards to filing status, many individuals who do their own return chose the wrong filing status, especially when more than one could apply.
  4. The figuring of credits and deductions are complex in our tax structure. Numerous individuals complete these on their own incorrectly. A qualified tax preparer will know how to calculate these credit and deductions and avoid these common errors.
  5. An unsigned tax return is never valid. This is especially significant from joint returns in which both spouses must sign the tax form. Though there are exceptions for members of the armed forces and power of attorneys numerous self preparers get the returns rejected due to signatures being absent, or in the wrong section.

If you need any further information on this topic I suggest you read the IRS’s Common Errors. As of today, there is only 31 days lefts in this tax season. I urge you all to contact your tax professional to prepare your 2019 return today.