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How To Avoid Common Mistakes

This is archived information that pertains only to the 1999 Tax Year. If you
are looking for information for the current tax year, go to the Tax Prep Help Area.

Mistakes may delay your refund or result in notices being sent to you.

  1. Be sure to enter your social security number (SSN) in the space provided on page 1 of Form 1040. If you are married filing a joint or separate return, also enter your spouse's SSN. Be sure to enter your SSN in the space next to your name.
  2. Make sure you entered the correct name and SSN for each dependent you claim on line 6c. Also, make sure you check the box in column (4) of line 6c for each dependent who is also a qualifying child for the child tax credit.
  3. Check your math, especially for the child tax credit, earned income credit, taxable social security benefits, total income, itemized deductions or standard deduction, deduction for exemptions, taxable income, total tax, Federal income tax withheld, and refund or amount you owe.
  4. Be sure you use the correct method to figure your tax. See the instructions for line 40 that begin on page 31.
  5. Make sure your name and address are correct on the peel-off label. If not, enter the correct information.
  6. If you are taking the standard deduction and you checked any box on line 35a or you (or your spouse if filing jointly) can be claimed as a dependent on someone's return, see page 30 to be sure you entered the correct amount on line 36.
  7. If you are married filing jointly and did not get a peel-off label, enter your and your spouse's name in the same order as shown on your last return.
  8. If you received capital gain distributions but were not required to file Schedule D, make sure you check the box on line 13.
  9. Remember to sign and date Form 1040 and enter your occupation.
  10. Attach your W-2 form(s) and other required forms and schedules. Put all forms and schedules in the proper order. See Assemble Your Return on this page.
  11. If you owe tax and are paying by check or money order, be sure to include all the required information on your payment. See the instructions for line 68 on page 49 for details.


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