It's tax season again and that means it's time to file your taxes. Whether you do them yourself or hire a professional, your taxes must be filed by April 15th. Once you've completed your tax return, it's important to check it over to ensure accuracy. Checking your tax return is a simple process, and there are a few steps you need to follow. This guide will walk you through the process of checking your tax return in 2023.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
The first step to checking your tax return is to gather all your documents. This includes your W-2 or 1099 forms, any other income documents, and any deductions and credits you plan to claim. If you're using a professional tax preparer, they should provide you with a copy of your return. If not, you can find a copy of your return online.
Step 2: Compare Your Return to Your Documents
Once you have all your documents, it's time to compare them to your tax return. Make sure all the information on your return matches the information on your documents. This includes your name, address, Social Security number, and income. Check to make sure all the deductions and credits you claimed are accurate, and that the total amount claimed is correct. If you find any discrepancies, make sure to correct them before submitting your return.
Step 3: Check Your Math
Once you've verified that all the information on your return is accurate, it's time to check your math. Double check all of your calculations to make sure that there are no errors. This includes your taxable income, deductions, credits, and the amount of taxes you owe or will be refunded. If you're using a professional tax preparer, they should be able to help you with this step.
Step 4: Check for Common Mistakes
It's also important to look for common mistakes when checking your tax return. These include incorrect Social Security numbers, incorrect filing status, forgetting to sign the return, and forgetting to attach documents such as W-2s. Additionally, make sure you don't claim any deductions or credits you're not eligible for. If you're not sure if you can claim something, it's best to consult with a tax professional.
Step 5: Submit Your Return
Once you've checked your tax return and corrected any mistakes, it's time to submit it. If you're using a professional tax preparer, they will submit your return for you. If you're filing yourself, you can submit your return electronically or by mail. If you're filing by mail, make sure to include all the required documents and mail your return to the correct address. You can find a list of addresses online.
Step 6: Check Your Refund Status
After you've submitted your return, you can check your refund status. If you're expecting a refund, you can track its progress online. This will tell you when the IRS received your return and when your refund will be issued. You can also use this information to find out if your return has been accepted or rejected.
Conclusion
Checking your tax return is an important step in the tax filing process. It's critical to make sure your return is accurate and all the information is correct. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your tax return is accurate and you receive the refund you're entitled to.
