Common Errors and Issues Faced While Submitting Unfiled Returns Online

Each tax season, thousands of filers run into delays, refund holds, or rejection notices, not because they did anything wrong, but because of small, overlooked mistakes. 

From a mistyped Social Security number to an incorrect filing status, these tiny errors can lead to major headaches with the IRS. Understanding the most frequent IRS common filing errors and how they happen is the first step to avoiding them. 

In this blog, we will explain the common IRS filing errors taxpayers make, how to avoid them, and the best ways to ensure your return gets processed quickly and correctly.

Why Accuracy Matters When Submitting Unfiled Returns Online?

Accuracy is what keeps your information flowing smoothly through the IRS system. When even one digit or name doesn’t match official records, the system automatically flags the file. Here’s what inaccuracy can cause:

• Refund delays (sometimes weeks or even months).
• IRS notices asking for proof or clarification.
• Identity verification requests, which can pause your return.
• Denied credits or deductions if the system cannot confirm your data.

Filing accurately can help in quick processing, quicker returns, and reduced levels of stress, whether you are filing as a business or an individual applicant.

Top IRS Common Filing Errors to Avoid

Let’s break down the most common tax filing mistakes that people make. Each of these can lead to rejections, refund delays, or even amended returns later.

Missing or Inaccurate Social Security Numbers (SSNs)

This is by far one of the biggest causes of IRS e-file errors. The IRS uses your SSN as the unique ID to match your tax data with your past filings, W-2s, and 1099s. If your SSN is off by even one digit, the system flags it as a mismatch. Tips to avoid this:

• Double-check SSNs against your Social Security card, never from memory.
• Ensure dependents’ SSNs are entered correctly.
• If you’re filing jointly, verify your spouse’s SSN as well.

If you’ve had an identity theft issue in the past, make sure to use the proper PIN provided by the IRS before e-filing.

Misspelled Names and Name Mismatches

Your name must match exactly as shown on your Social Security card. A missing hyphen or maiden name can delay processing. Avoid this by:

• Match your name exactly with your Social Security card.
• If you changed your name after marriage or divorce, update the SSA first before filing.

Incorrect Filing Status Selection

Selecting the incorrect filing status may have implications for your tax rate, deductions, and refund. Many people get confused between “Head of Household” and “Single,” or between “Married Filing Jointly” and “Married Filing Separately.” 

Math and Calculation Errors

Math mistakes remain one of the most common income tax reporting errors. Even with software, human oversight can still sneak in. If totals don’t match forms like W-2s or 1099s, it slows your refund.

Errors in Claiming Credits and Deductions

Claiming credits you don’t qualify for or forgetting ones you do is a key cause of common IRS filing errors. Sometimes, software will pre-fill data from last year. Always review it carefully before submission. 

Incorrect Bank Account & Routing Numbers for Direct Deposit

This one hurts the most because it’s easy to avoid. Entering the wrong bank info can send your refund to someone else or cause the IRS to mail a paper check instead. Double-check this before submitting:

• The routing number (first nine digits).
• Your checking or savings account number.
• Whether the account belongs to you or a joint filer.

You can verify these numbers on a personal check or with your bank directly. Mistyped numbers cause electronic tax filing errors that can delay refunds for months.

Unsigned or Improperly Signed Returns

For paper filers, unsigned returns are treated as unfiled tax return mistakes; the IRS won’t process them. For e-filers, forgetting the final digital signature step is equally problematic.

If you’re submitting online, make sure your digital signature on tax returns is verified. The IRS allows different signing methods, such as Self-Select PIN or prior-year AGI confirmation. Missing this step means your return is never officially received.

Filing Too Early Before Receiving All Documents

Many taxpayers rush to file because W-2s have been received, and other filings, such as 1099-INT (interest) and 1099-DIV (dividends), are overlooked. Filing before you have all the documents may create a mismatch in the reporting of the income.

In case the IRS receives a form subsequently, which does not match the income that you submitted, it will send a CP2000 notice, i.e., you will pay more or will have to make changes to your filing. Wait until the middle of February when all forms are received from the issuers.

Additional Common Errors Specific to Online Unfiled Return Submissions

Online systems are convenient but not foolproof. A few problems are unique to digital filings:

• Using an outdated browser or version of tax software.
• Uploading the wrong year’s form (e.g., filing a 2023 return using a 2022 form).
• Forgetting to attach supporting documents when requested.
• Not checking for taxpayer identification mistakes before e-filing.

Another overlooked issue is submitting a tax return too close to the deadline. High IRS server traffic in april can cause transmission delays or incomplete submissions.

How to Avoid and Correct These Common Tax Filing Mistakes

Avoiding common IRS filing errors starts with attention to detail. Most problems are preventable with a few extra minutes of checking before you hit “submit.”

Here’s an individual and business tax preparation checklist that keeps your return clean and error-free:

• Check your personal info first: Make sure every Social Security number and taxpayer ID is correct. The name on your tax return must match exactly what’s printed on your Social Security card. If you use an ITIN, be sure it’s still valid.
• Match all income forms: Compare your W-2s, 1099s, and any other income papers with what your employer or bank provided. If you’re waiting for a form, hold off on filing.
• Recheck your bank details: Look at your routing and account numbers twice before you hit “submit.” Don’t use someone else’s account or a recently closed one.
• Confirm your filing status and dependents: Use the IRS online tool to make sure your filing status (single, head of household, married filing jointly, etc.) is correct. Review your dependent information carefully.
• Use current tax software: It is always important to file with current year software or web-based sites that are updated on the current tax laws.
• Sign and save everything: If you e-file, finish the digital signature on the tax returns step properly. For paper returns, remember that both spouses must sign if you file jointly. Keep a copy of your return and the confirmation email as proof of submission.

How to Correct a Return After Submission?

Mistakes happen, even with careful review. If you realize an error after submitting your return, the IRS amendment process allows you to fix details without penalty. Always use the same tax year form as the original return when amending.

What Happens If You Submit a Return with Errors?

If the IRS detects an error, it may pause processing. You may get a notice asking for more information. In some cases, the IRS delays refunds. Identity checks can also occur. 

If the IRS suspects fraud, it may require additional verification. Minor problems may be fixed with a phone call or by e-filing an amendment. Major mismatches may require paper documents. These issues sometimes lead to IRS refund delays.

Best Practices for Submitting Unfiled Returns Online Successfully

Filing by the online method is the simplest and quickest method of filing but success depends on the accuracy and verification. The following are the best tax preparation tips to follow:

1. Prepare in advance: Prepare all the income forms, deduction receipts, and past-year tax information. This prevents the entries that have been left behind.
2. Official IRS tools: Use lookup tools and IRS.gov calculators when in doubt. They can verify filing status, dependency qualification, and credit eligibility.
3. Check each field individually: Despite the auto-fill, verify the entries in terms of spelling, accuracy of numbers, and location of the decimals. 
4. Post when the site has low traffic: When a form is submitted late in the night/early morning, it may be processed quickly, and the system will not delay much. This helps avoid last-minute IRS e-file errors near deadlines.
5. Confirm submission success: After submitting, always verify that your return was “accepted,” not just “transmitted.” “Accepted” means it cleared IRS checks; “transmitted” means it only left your software.
6. Monitor refund status: Use the “Where’s My Refund?” tool to track progress. If the tool shows error code 9001 or other validation issues, it usually points to mismatched data, a common tax return validation failure.

File Smart, Fix Fast with Bowes & Sullivan

Small errors can lead to big problems. Avoiding common IRS filing errors keeps your tax return smooth, fast, and stress-free. Bowes & Sullivan is your best choice for fixing and preventing IRS tax return errors. Our experts review every detail, from SSNs and income forms to bank info and filing status, making sure your return is 100% accurate before it ever reaches the IRS. We handle tax filing for businesses and individuals, resolve notices, and even correct past common tax filing mistakes to protect your refund and peace of mind.

Let us take the stress out of your taxes. Contact us today to get your return filed accurately and confidently with Bowes & Sullivan.

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