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TT-2008-63: Avoid Common Errors
Forms and publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects are available around the clock on the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.
Forms and publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects are available around the clock on the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.
== TT-2008-63: AVOID COMMON ERRORS ==
The IRS recommends reviewing your entire tax return to be sure it is accurate and complete. Even a simple mistake can cause problems which might lead to delays in processing your return and receiving your refund.
Here are some ways to avoid common tax return errors:
* '''File electronically'''. If you choose to e-file, many common errors are avoided or corrected by the computer software. If your income is under $54,000 you may be able to e-file for free using IRS Free File.
* '''Use the peel-off label''' if you choose to mail a paper return. You may line through and make necessary corrections right on the label. Be sure to fill in your Social Security number in the box provided on the return. If you do not have a peel-off label, fill in all requested information clearly, including the Social Security numbers.
* '''Check only one filing status''' on the tax return and check the appropriate exemption boxes. Enter the correct Social Security numbers for each of those exemptions.
* '''Use the correct Tax Table column''' for your filing status.
* '''Double check''' all figures on the return. Math errors are common mistakes.
* '''Make sure''' that the financial institution routing and account numbers you have entered on the return for a direct deposit of your refund are accurate. Incorrect numbers can cause the refund to be delayed or misdirected.
* '''Sign and date the return'''. If filing a joint return, both spouses must sign and date the return.
* '''Attach''' all Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, and other forms that reflect tax withheld to the front of the return. Attach all other necessary forms and schedules.
* '''Do you owe tax?''' If so, enclose a check or money order made payable to the "United States Treasury" and Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, if used. Or, you may choose to pay by credit card by contacting one of the credit card service providers.
For a complete checklist and a listing of some of the most common errors, see Tax Topic 303, Checklist of Common Errors When Preparing Your Tax Return, at IRS.gov, or call our TeleTax number, 800-829-4477. For more information about IRS e-file and Free File visit the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.
== TT-2008-64: PREPARING YOUR TAX RETURN FOR MAILING ==
If you are mailing a paper return to the IRS, take a few minutes to make certain that all information is complete and accurate before sealing the envelope. This simple precaution could help you avoid mistakes that can delay your refund or result in correspondence from the IRS.
Here are just a few items to complete prior to mailing your tax return:
* Sign your return Your federal tax return is not considered a valid return unless it is signed. If you are filing a joint return, your spouse also must sign.
* Provide a daytime phone number. This may help speed the processing of your return if the IRS has questions about items on your return.
* Assemble any schedules and forms behind your Form 1040/1040A in the order of the "Attachment Sequence No." shown in the upper right hand corner of the schedule or form. Arrange any supporting statements in the same order as the schedules or forms they support and attach them last.
* Attach all copies of Forms W-2, W-2G and 2439 to the front of Form 1040. Also attach Form 1099-R if federal tax was withheld.
* Use the coded envelope included with your tax package to mail your return. If you did not receive an envelope, check the section called "Where Do You File?" in the tax instruction booklet. Don’t forget the stamp!
* If you are due a refund, consider direct deposit to receive your refund in the quickest and safest manner. Then make sure that the financial institution routing and account numbers you have entered are accurate. Incorrect numbers can cause the refund to be delayed or misdirected.
* Do you owe tax? If so, enclose a check or money order made payable to the “United States Treasury” and Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, if used. Make sure you include your correct name, address, the Social Security number that is listed first on the tax form, daytime telephone number, tax year and form number (i.e. Form 1040). Or, you may choose to pay by credit card by contacting one of the credit card service providers.
For more information, refer to your tax instruction booklet or visit the IRS Web site at IRS.gov.
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== External Links ==