Tax filing mistakes can happen to anyone, even if you have a fairly straightforward return. Some mistakes will simply delay your refund, while others can trigger an IRS notice or result in tax underpayment penalties and interest charges.
H&R Block's tax software provides multiple ways to catch errors on your return, whether you file online or work directly with a tax pro. It was also recently named the CNET Editor's Choice for best tax software.
Common tax filing mistakes to avoid
According to the IRS, many people tend to make similar mistakes on their tax returns. Here are some to watch out for this year:
- Missing or incorrect information: Incorrect personal or banking information can cause processing delays or misdirect your refund.
- Incorrect filing status: You can choose from multiple tax status filing options, and picking the wrong one directly impacts your tax liability.
- Math errors: Math errors are a common problem, and even a minor mistake can lead to significant discrepancies on your tax return.
- Submitting an incomplete return: Submitting a return without the required W-2s or 1099s can result in processing delays.
How to catch errors before filing your return
While no filing method is completely error-proof, using the right tax tools can significantly reduce your risk. Here are steps you can take to catch mistakes before submitting your return.
File online
Paper returns and manual entry increase the likelihood of math errors, missing information and transcription mistakes. Without real-time feedback, it's easy to move forward without realizing something was entered incorrectly. Filing online reduces those risks by guiding users through each section step by step and flagging missing or inconsistent information before submission.
H&R Block's online filing software includes built-in error checks and interview-style questions that help identify common problems as you work through your return. Instead of discovering an issue after filing, you can correct it while the return is still in progress.
Import 1099s directly
Multiple 1099s can lead to errors because your income is often spread across different platforms or payment apps. It's easy to forget to include a form or miscalculate the totals when
reconciling several documents. Those small discrepancies can cause your reported income to differ from what the IRS has on file.
Directly importing 1099s pulls income data straight into your return and helps ensure the totals match what you reported to the IRS. H&R Block allows users to import 1099s directly and upload PDF copies of common tax forms, helping ensure that income is reported accurately.
Review your return with a tax professional before filing
The right software can help you catch mistakes, but for more complex tax situations, it can be helpful to have a tax pro check your return before filing. Filing status decisions, dependent claims and tax credit eligibility are common reasons to connect with a tax professional.
H&R Block's Tax Pro Review gives you the option to have a tax pro review your completed return and uploaded documents before filing. This extra step helps identify potential errors, missed credits or inconsistencies that could otherwise go unnoticed.
How to fix a tax error after filing
Discovering a mistake after you've already filed your tax return can feel stressful, but not all errors require the same response. What you should do next depends on whether the IRS rejected or accepted your return.
IRS rejections are often caused by simple issues, like a name or Social Security number that doesn't match IRS records or missing information. In most cases, you don't have to amend a rejected return; you can correct the error and resubmit it once the issue is fixed. While a rejection can delay processing, it usually doesn't result in penalties if it's addressed quickly.
If your return was accepted and you realize you made a mistake, you'll typically need to file an amended return. An amended return includes all the original information plus the corrected details, allowing the IRS to see exactly what changed. It's important to wait until the IRS has finished processing your original return before submitting an amendment, since filing too early can slow down the correction process.
Even if you didn't receive a 1099 in time, you still need to report the income. The IRS often receives that information directly from payers, which means discrepancies can surface months later. Amending your return voluntarily helps correct the record and can reduce the risk of future IRS notices or adjustments.
If a return is rejected, H&R Block guides users through fixing the issue and resubmitting it correctly. And if a return needs to be amended after processing, H&R Block provides clear guidance on how to make that correction.
H&R Block helps you avoid tax filing errors
H&R Block helps reduce common filing mistakes by giving taxpayers multiple opportunities to catch errors before and after filing. Built-in error checks and interview-style questions help online filers flag missing information and spot inconsistencies as the return is completed. Direct 1099 import tools make it easier to report income accurately, especially when earnings come from multiple sources.
For those who want added reassurance, Tax Pro Review allows a tax expert to review the entire return and uploaded documents before submission to identify anything that may have been overlooked. And if you do discover an issue after filing, H&R Block provides guidance on how to file an amended return when a correction is required.
H&R Block also gives taxpayers ways to check previous returns. Second Look lets customers request a free review of up to three prior returns to help identify missed credits or deductions. If a past return needs to be amended, pricing is based on the complexity of the changes and the level of service chosen, with many amended returns starting around $99.