The 7 Most Common Tax Filing Mistakes

Tax season can be a stressful and overwhelming time for many individuals, and it's easy to
make mistakes when filing your taxes. However, even small mistakes can have big
consequences, so it's important to be aware of the most common tax filing mistakes and how
to avoid them. In this blog post, we will be discussing the seven most common tax filing
mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Wrong Social Security Numbers One of the most common mistakes when filing taxes is
entering the wrong Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and your
dependents. This can delay your refund and even lead to your return being rejected. To
avoid this mistake, double-check that all Social Security numbers are correct before you
file your taxes.
2. Incorrect Taxpayer Name Another common mistake is entering the incorrect name on
your tax return. This can happen if your name has changed since you last filed your
taxes, or if there is a typographical error. To avoid this mistake, double-check that the
names on your tax return match your Social Security card and any other official
documents you have.
3. Wrong Names A closely related mistake to the above is using the wrong name on your
tax return. This can happen if you're divorced and using a different last name than the
one you used on your last tax return. To avoid this mistake, double-check that you're
using the correct name on your tax return.
4. Multiple Filing Statuses Filing under the wrong status is another common mistake. It's
important to choose the correct filing status based on your personal circumstances. For
example, if you're married but file as single, you could end up paying more taxes. To
avoid this mistake, make sure to choose the correct filing status based on your personal
circumstances.
5. Failing to Sign Your Tax Return Failing to sign your tax return is another common
mistake that can cause your return to be rejected. To avoid this mistake, make sure to
sign your tax return before you file it.
6. Math Errors Another common mistake is making math errors when calculating your
taxes. To avoid this mistake, double-check your calculations before you file your taxes.
Additionally, it's helpful to use a tax preparation software to help you calculate your
taxes.
7. Not Claiming Earned Income Tax Credit Eligibility The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is
a credit for low to moderate-income taxpayers, but it's often overlooked or not claimed
by those who are eligible. This can result in missing out on significant tax savings. To
avoid this mistake, make sure to check your eligibility for the EITC and claim it if you
qualify.
In conclusion, preparing and filing your taxes can be a complex and stressful process, but by
being aware of the most common tax filing mistakes and how to avoid them, you can reduce

the risk of errors and ensure that your return is accepted. Remember to double-check Social
Security numbers, names, filing status, signature, math errors, and EITC eligibility. With these
tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free tax season.