April is the most important month of the year for your taxes. If you file on time and correctly, you can avoid fines, accelerate your refund and sleep easy. In addition, today most taxpayers file online and receive their refund in less than 21 days when there are no problems with the return.

Here are the most common last-minute mistakes and how to avoid them.

1) Don't file because “I can't pay”.

- Why it's serious: The penalty for not filing is much higher than the penalty for not paying.

- Key fact: The penalty for not filing can be 5% per month (up to 25%), while the penalty for not paying is usually 0.5% per month. Reference: IRS Topic No. 653.

- How to avoid it: Submit on time and, if you're short on money, pay what you can today and request a payment plan. You can also request an extension to file (Form 4868), but remember: the extension doesn't delay payment.

2) Let go of credits that lower your taxes.

- Why it's serious: Many taxpayers qualify and don't claim them.

- Key fact: Approximately 1 in 5 eligible people does not claim the Earned Income Credit (EITC). Reference: IRS — Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

- How to avoid it: Check if you qualify for EITC, Child Credit and Dependent Care Credit. If you're self-employed, keep your expenses organized: they could increase your deductions.

3) Don't use direct deposit for the refund.

- Why it matters: It's the fastest and most secure way to receive your money.

- Key fact: 8 out of 10 taxpayers use direct deposit. Reference: IRS — Get your refund faster: Direct Deposit.

- How to avoid it: Check that your route number and account are correct before submitting the declaration.

4) Send the paper declaration at the last minute.

- Why it matters: Paper shipping takes longer and may have more errors.

- Key fact: More than 90% of returns are filed electronically, reducing errors and accelerating the process. Reference: IRS Data Book.

- How to avoid it: Submit by e-file with professional help or with reliable software.

5) Personal information errors (names, SSN/ITIN, marital status).

- Why it matters: A misspelled number or name can delay your refund.

- Key fact: Personal data errors are among the most common errors that delay returns. Reference: IRS — Common errors that delay refunds.

- How to avoid it: Check letter by letter your name, date of birth and SSN/ITIN as they appear on your official documents.

6) Forgetting to report “small” incomes.

- Why it matters: The IRS receives copies of your forms (such as W‑2, 1099). If you don't include them, they can adjust your return and charge fines.

- How to avoid it: Collect all your forms: W‑2, 1099‑NEC/MISC, 1099‑INT/DIV/B, 1099‑K, etc. Check your bank and payment app accounts in case you received digital forms.

7) Don't renew or use your ITIN.

- Why it matters: An expired ITIN can delay refunds and credits.

- Key fact: ITINs that are not used on a federal return for 3 consecutive years expire. Reference: IRS — ITIN FAQs.

- How to avoid it: If you file with an ITIN, confirm that it is active or renew on time.

8) Do not keep receipts.

- Why it matters: If the IRS asks questions, you'll need backup.

- How to avoid it: Keep your W‑2, 1099, deductible expense receipts, account statements and business records for at least 3 years if you're self-employed.

9) Leave it until the last minute without a plan.

- Why it matters: Stress increases errors; errors delay refunds.

- How to avoid it: Make a list of documents, schedule your appointment and, if you don't arrive, ask for the extension before the deadline and pay what you can.

How La Familia Multiservices helps you

- We check that you claim all the credits and deductions that apply to you (EITC, Child Credit, education, own business).

- We electronically submit and set up direct deposit to expedite your refund.

- If you must, we help you with an extension and payment plan to reduce penalties and interest.

- Special support for self-employed workers, small business owners and families with ITIN.

Schedule today at www.lafamiliamultiservices.com and avoid unnecessary costs.

References

- IRS — Topic No. 653: Penalties: https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc653

- IRS — Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc

- IRS — Direct Deposit (Get your refund faster): https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund

- IRS — Where's My Refund/Refund timing: https://www.irs.gov/refunds

- IRS — IRS Data Book (electronic filing statistics): https://www.irs.gov/statistics/irs-data-book

- IRS — ITIN FAQs (expiration and renewal): https://www.irs.gov/individuals/itin-expiration-faqs

- IRS — Common errors that delay refunds: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/common-errors-on-tax-returns

Note: This information is general and may change. It does not constitute personalized legal or tax advice. For specific recommendations about your case, schedule a consultation with our team.

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