Tip:
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JULIANNE: Here's a tip from the IRS.
Hi, I'm Julianne,
and I work for the Internal Revenue Service.
Did you know that if there's a mistake on your tax return,
it usually takes us longer to process it?
This means that if you're getting a refund,
you'll have to wait longer to get it.
Fewer mistakes mean quicker refunds,
so here's the list of the most common mistakes
and how to avoid them.
Let's start with incorrect or missing Social Security numbers.
Be sure to write the number
exactly as it appears on your Social Security card.
Another mistake is incorrect or misspelled last names
for you or your dependents.
Be sure they are entered exactly as they appear
on everyone's Social Security cards.
Another problem is filing status errors.
Make sure you're choosing the correct one.
There are five possibilities --
single, married filing jointly,
married filing separately,
head of household,
and qualifying widow or widower with dependent child.
The next thing on the list is math errors.
Double-check your math, or, better yet, e-file
and let the tax software double-check it for you.
Another problem is computation issues.
Many people make mistakes
when figuring the Earned Income Tax Credit,
the Child Care Credit,
the Special Standard Deduction
for blind people and senior citizens,
and the taxable part of Social Security benefits.
Again, tax preparation software can really help out here.
Another common error
is incorrect bank account numbers for direct deposit.
Make sure you double-check your numbers.
And, finally, don't forget to sign and date your return.
If you're married and filing jointly, remember,
both spouses must sign and date the return.
Taxpayers filing electronically
must also sign their tax return electronically
by using a Personal Identification Number,
or PIN.
There are two ways to get a PIN
if you're e-filing for the first time --
You can verify your identity
by entering your adjusted gross income
from your previous federal income tax return,
or you can request an electronic filing PIN online.
To get all you need to file your tax return,
go to www.IRS.gov.