9 Innocent Tax Return Mistakes That Trigger IRS Problems

1. Wrong or missing Social Security numbers. Be sure you enter all SSNs on your tax return exactly as they are on the Social Security cards.
2. Wrong names. Be sure you spell the names of everyone on your tax return exactly as they are on their Social Security cards.
3. Filing status errors. Some people use the wrong filing status, such as Head of Household instead of Single. The Interactive Tax Assistant on IRS.gov can help you choose the right one. Tax software helps e-filers choose.
4. Math mistakes. Double-check your math. For example, be careful when you add or subtract or figure items on a form or worksheet. Tax preparation software does all the math for e-filers.
5. Errors in figuring credits or deductions.  Many filers make mistakes figuring their Earned Income Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit, and the standard deduction. If you’re not e-filing, follow the instructions carefully when figuring credits and deductions. For example, if you’re age 65 or older or blind, be sure you claim the correct, higher standard deduction.
6. Wrong bank account numbers. You should choose to get your refund by direct deposit. But it’s important that you use the right bank and account numbers on your return. The fastest and safest way to get a tax refund is to combine e-file with direct deposit.
7. Forms not signed or dated. An unsigned tax return is like an unsigned check – it’s not valid. Remember that both spouses must sign a joint return.
8. Electronic filing PIN errors. When you e-file, you sign your return electronically with a Personal Identification Number. If you know last year’s e-file PIN, you can use that. If not, you’ll need to enter the Adjusted Gross Income from your originally-filed 2012 federal tax return. Don’t use the AGI amount from an amended 2012 return or a 2012 return that the IRS corrected.
9. Mismatches between your tax return and Forms 1099. These key forms come in many varieties, and they are important. For interest and dividends there are Forms 1099-INT and 1099 DIV. And the granddaddy of them all, Form 1099-MISC. With each 1099, the IRS receives a copy. If you forget to include 1099 income on your return, expect a notice. It may include penalties and will almost surely include interest. It can even trigger a more comprehensive audit.

Be careful. Tax returns are filed under penalties of perjury. Simple reporting problems can lead to crippling mistakes that can cost big. The law has elaborate Form W-2 and Form 1099 reporting rules to serve as checks and balances. Yet a huge part of our tax system is about self-reporting.