Advantages of E-filing your Tax Return

The IRS reminds filers that e-filing their tax return greatly lowers the chance of errors. In fact, taxpayers are about twenty times more likely to make a mistake on their return if they file a paper return instead of e-filing their return. Here are some common errors to avoid:

1. WRONG OR MISSING SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS. Be sure to enter SSNs for the taxpayer and others on the tax return exactly as they are on the social security cards.
2. NAMES WRONG OR MISSPELLED. Be sure to enter names of all individuals on the tax return exactly as they are on their social security cards.
3. FILING STATUS ERRORS. Choose the right filing status. There are five filing statuses: 1 - Single, 2- Married Filing Jointly, 3- Married Filing Separately, 4- Head of Household, 5- Qualifying Widow(er) with Dependent Child.
4. MATH MISTAKES. When filing a paper tax return, double check the math.When e-filing, the software does the math.
5. ERRORS IN FIGURING CREDITS, DEDUCTIONS. Take time and read the instructions in the tax booklet carefully. Many filers make mistakes figuring their earned income tax credit, child and dependent care credit and the standard deduction.
6. WRONG BANK ACCOUNT NUMBERS. Direct deposit is the fast, easy and safe way to receive a tax refund. Make sure to enter the bank routing and account numbers correctly.
7. FORMS NOT SIGNED, DATED. An unsigned tax return is like an unsigned check. It's invalid. Remember both spouses must sign a joint return.
8. ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE ERRORS. if the taxpayer e-files the tax return, he or she will sign the return electronically using a personal identification number.