Eight Common Mistakes Made When Filing Tax Returns

The Internal Revenue Service has released a list of the eight most common errors that are made on tax returns.

If a mistake is made on a return, it takes the IRS longer to process it, said Dianne Besunder, a spokeswoman for the agency. Therefore, the receipt of your tax refund would likely be delayed.

Take a look at this list of errors you’ll want to make sure to avoid:

1. Wrong or missing Social Security numbers. Be sure to enter your number for yourself and others on your tax return exactly as they are on your Social Security card.

2. Names wrong or misspelled.

3. Filing status errors. Be sure to choose the right filing status: single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household and qualifying widower with dependent child. See Publication 501, Exemptions, Standard Deduction and Filing Information, to help you choose the right one.

4. Math mistakes. If you file a paper return, double check the math. If you e-file, the software does the math for you. If your Social Security benefits are taxable, check to ensure you figured the taxable portion correctly.

5. Errors in figuring credits, deductions. Be sure you’ve read the instructions in your tax booklet carefully. Many filers make mistakes figuring their Earned Income Tax Credit, Child and Dependent Care Credit and standard deduction, Besunder said.

6. Wrong bank account numbers. Direct deposit is the fast, easy and safe way to receive a tax refund, according to Besunder. Be sure to enter the correct bank routing and account numbers.

7. Forms not signed and dated. An unsigned tax return is just as invalid as an unsigned check. Both spouses must sign a joint return.

8. Electronic signature errors. If you e-file your return, you must sign the return electronically using a Personal Identification Number. For security purposes, the software will ask you to enter the adjusted gross income from your 2011 federal tax return. Do not use the amount from an amended 2011 return or an AGI provided to you if the IRS corrected your return.

For more information on filing your tax returns, visit the IRS's website.