What’s in a name? Everything.
Does the name on your Social Security Card match your W-2 or 1099? Does the name match your ID? Does your name match what the IRS has on file? If there are any discrepancies, it is in your best interest to rectify these before you file.
Did you file MFS? Be sure to include your spouse’s name below yours. Did you file MFJ? Be sure to keep the same order that the name appears on last year’s return as this year’s return and that both of you sign. Did you get a name change through the court? You need to report this to Social Security. Be sure that both names are on the joint account.
While these seem like obvious things to check it is some of the most common reasons why returns are rejected, holding up your refund or worse causing you to file late. And, BTW, if your return is rejected and you are not able to resolve these issues before April 15th, you are considered to have filed late and are subject to penalties and interest.
The good news is that if for any reason these issues occur when you file with Jamison’s Tax Consulting we offer insurance that covers these expenses so that they do not come out of your pocket. If you do your own taxes and your return is rejected for any reason. You pay these fees out of your own pocket.