If you’re expecting a tax refund this year from the IRS, the last thing you want is an unnecessary delay.
The IRS has flagged some of the most common mistakes that hold up tax returns—and they’re easier to avoid than you think.
1. File Electronically
Filing on paper slows everything down. The IRS strongly recommends e-filing and choosing direct deposit for your refund. Electronic returns are processed much faster, and they significantly reduce the chances of making errors. If you’re still mailing in your tax return, expect a longer wait.
2. Double-Check Your Personal Information
One of the most common mistakes? Typos in Social Security numbers, names, or birth dates. If anything is entered incorrectly, the IRS may reject your return or delay your refund while they verify your details.
3. Choose the Right Filing Status
Picking the wrong filing status can lead to miscalculations or even IRS rejection. Not sure if you should file as Single, Married Filing Jointly, or Head of Household? Use the IRS’s Interactive Tax Assistant to figure it out before submitting your return.
4. Report All Income
The IRS gets copies of your W-2s, 1099s, and other income statements, so leaving anything out can trigger a review. This includes side gigs, freelance work, stock sales, and even gambling winnings. If you forget to report income, expect a delay—or worse, an audit.
5. Enter Your Bank Info Correctly
Want your refund as quickly as possible? Make sure your bank routing and account numbers are correct if you’re using direct deposit. A simple typo could send your refund to the wrong account—or bounce it back to the IRS, causing weeks of delays.
6. Sign and Date Your Return
Yes, people forget this! If you’re filing jointly, both spouses must sign. An unsigned return is invalid, which means the IRS won’t process it until you fix the mistake.
7. Watch Out for Math Errors
Even with tax software, mistakes happen. Double-check your calculations, especially when claiming deductions or credits. If you enter the wrong numbers, the IRS will have to review and correct your return, which could slow things down significantly.
8. Claim Credits Properly
Tax credits like the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit can boost your refund, but if you claim them incorrectly, the IRS will hold up your return while they investigate. Make sure you meet all eligibility requirements before applying for these credits.
9. File Before the Deadline
Procrastinating can backfire. The earlier you file, the faster you’ll get your refund. Plus, filing early reduces the risk of tax identity theft, where scammers try to file a return in your name to steal your refund.
Avoid Delays and Get Your Money Faster
If you want your refund without delays, follow these steps:
- File electronically with direct deposit.
- Check your Social Security number, name, and filing status.
- Report all income, including freelance and side gigs.
- Double-check your bank details and signature.
- Avoid math errors and claim deductions properly.
The IRS’s official Where’s My Refund? tool can help track your refund status. If you follow these simple steps, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and get your money as fast as possible.
