The dawn of 2020 brings opportunities to create new resolutions or plans for the next 12 months — and also marks the beginning of tax season. While tax day on April 15th can seem far off, this year’s deadline will be here before you know it. As you start the process of gathering your tax documents and completing your return, we want to provide a reminder of common tax filing errors to look out for. Whether you hire a professional or go it alone, avoiding these mistakes can help ensure your taxes are correct and prevent unnecessary delay or feedback from the IRS.
Tax Filing Error #1 – Having incorrect or missing Social Security Numbers
The IRS processes millions of tax returns each year, and they need correct identifying information in order to address yours correctly. Transposing numbers when writing your Social Security Number (SSN) or accidentally recording your spouse’s or children’s SSN incorrectly is easy when you’re writing or typing quickly. Before you make one of the more common tax filing errors, check each SSN against the Social Security card to make sure the numbers are accurate.
Tax Filing Error #2 – Choosing the wrong filing status
Your filing status determines many aspects of your tax responsibilities — from your standard deduction to applicable credits. So, it is crucial to select the right option to ensure you don’t make any tax filing errors. Because you may be eligible for more than one filing status, this year’s best choice could be different than in the past. In short, to explore which filing status is right, visit this page on the IRS website and complete a five-minute survey to determine which choice fits your circumstances and will result in the lowest tax liabilities.
Tax Filing Error #3 – Not addressing life changes
Life is full of transitions and many of them affect your tax liabilities which can lead to tax filing errors. When you begin to work on your taxes or meet with your tax preparer, identify any changes that impact your financial life. Marriage, divorce, and house buying are common life events to address, but the list extends much further:
- Do you have a child who started daycare?
- Did a parent move in with you?
- Did you turn a spare room into a home office?
- Take an inventory of your life in 2019 and look for changes that could matter to your taxes.
Tax Filing Error #4 – Missing or miscalculating charitable donations
Contributing to nonprofits is a powerful way to promote your values — and, as a result, lower your tax bill. So before any making tax filing errors, make sure you receive the greatest benefit by capturing all of your charitable donations in 2019. Gather your records for all donations to qualified, tax-exempt organizations, including:
- Cash
- Tax-deductible event tickets
- Clothing
- Household Goods
- And more
Remember: When calculating your donations, use the fair market value (what someone would pay for the item now) not your original purchase price.
Tax Filing Error #5 – Making typos
Tax returns are long and filled with data — especially if you have other forms or worksheets to complete along with your standard Form 1040. As a result, each entry creates an opportunity to make a mistake. Before making this filing error and filing your return, comb through your answers and cross-reference to make sure you or your tax preparer has:
- Spelled each name correctly
- Input the right numbers from each form
- Listed your bank account numbers correctly if you’re using direct deposit
Tax Filing Error #6 – Filing by mail
Completing hard copies of your tax documents and sending them by mail is still a valid option. However, the IRS recommends you file electronically, the e-file system will often find common errors in your return and reject it for you to correct them. So, you can fix any mistakes now rather than experiencing potential filing delays with a paper return.[1]
Few people enjoy doing their taxes, but if you take the time to slow down and avoid these tax filing errors, you can help simplify your experience and keep Uncle Sam off your back. If you have questions about your taxes and how it relates to your overall retirement plan, or need assistance in the preparation of your 2019 tax return (even if you aren’t an investment client of Modern Wealth Management!)call our office today at 913-393-1000 or schedule a complimentary consultation below.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
Select the office you would like to meet with. We can meet in-person, by virtual meeting, or by phone. Then it’s just two simple steps to schedule a time for your Complimentary Consultation.
Lenexa Office Lee’s Summit Office North Kansas City Office
Investment advisory services offered through Modern Wealth Management, Inc., an SEC Registered Investment Adviser.
The views expressed represent the opinion of Modern Wealth Management an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Information provided is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. Modern Wealth Management does not accept any liability for the use of the information discussed. Consult with a qualified financial, legal, or tax professional prior to taking any action.
Footnotes, disclosures, and sources:
These are the views of Platinum Advisor Marketing Strategies, LLC, and not necessarily those of the named representative, Broker dealer or Investment Advisor, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named representative nor the named Broker dealer or Investment Advisor gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your financial advisor for further information.
We have not independently verified the information available through the following links. The links are provided to you as a matter of interest. We make no claim as to their accuracy or reliability.
Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.
[1] https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc303.html