Here are some helpful tips to help you avoid making errors or triggering audits.
Include the correct Social Security number for you, your spouse, and your dependents.
If you plan to be out of the country on vacation or business on April 15, don't assume you're entitled to an automatic filing extension. You must request an extension on Form 4868.
If you are reporting any income differently than it was reported to you on Form 1099, be sure to note the amount of income from the 1099 on your return, then adjust it attaching your own statement explaining the adjustment.
You cannot make an IRA contribution after April 15 for the year that you make the contribution, even if you receive a filing extension.
You cannot take a deduction for an IRA rollover.
You cannot base IRA contributions on unearned income, such as dividends, interest, rents from rental property.
Don't deduct IRA contributions you made between January 1 and April 15th, which you treated as contributions for the year before's tax return.
Don't deduct 1998 state and local taxes you paid in 1999. For example, don't deduct your fourth-quarter state estimated tax payment for 1998, made in 1999.
Don't take a deduction for your commuting expenses.
Make sure to look under the correct column for your filing status when you look up your tax liability in the tax tables.
If you had self-employment income of $400 or more, be sure to figure self-employment tax. You must include in self-employment income directors fees and income from a partnership or limited liability company.
If you exercised an incentive stock option in 1998, or owned private activity bonds, check to see whether you owe any alternative minimum tax.
Make sure you attach your Form W-2s, and any 1099s showing tax withholding to your return.
Check, recheck, and triple check your math.
Make sure you sign your return, and if you file jointly, make sure your spouse signs the return also.
Make sure you put enough postage on your return. Too much is better than not enough.
If you apply for an extension, don't forget to include a check for any estimated balance due.
