Filing taxes for the first time can be overwhelming and stressful, circumstances that can make you much more likely to make a mistake. That said, filing a tax return on time and without errors is more than possible if you plan ahead. By looking at the most common mistakes other first-time filers make, you can be prepared to avoid the more common misfortunes that befall your peers. Plus, knowing what common areas have stymied people in similar situations can allow you to focus and pay closer attention to the tasks that often trip up others.
Below are five common mistakes first-time tax filers make so you can avoid them.
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Filing a paper return —According to the IRS, people who use paper forms are 20 times more likely to make a mistake.
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Entering an incorrect Social Security number —It may seem obvious, but it’s an important step. Get your Social Security card and check it before you file your return.
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Using incorrect marital status —Getting your filing status correct is essential to knowing how much of the standard deduction you can claim and what tax breaks you might qualify for.
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How to request an exemption for yourself — If your parents claim you as a dependent, it may cause problems to also claim an exemption for yourself.
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Getting math wrong —It’s very easy to make calculation mistakes. Go over the numbers a couple of times to make sure you haven’t made a mistake.
Next: 50 Ways You’re Wasting Money
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Common Tax Filing Mistakes to Avoid
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