Every year brings new people into the workforce. Refund Me wants to reach individuals filing tax returns for the first time, or for the first time after a gap in filing, to share information to help individuals meet their federal tax obligations. Grown children are becoming adults and working summer jobs.
Who is a first-time filer?
Many individuals may be filing a federal income tax return for the first time, or for the first time in several years. This includes:
- Students and recent graduates working for the first time
- Gig workers who did not previously need to file
- Adults returning to the workforce after long periods of unemployment
- New military recruits who may be getting their first paychecks
- Retirees returning to work to supplement their income
- People taking on filing responsibilities after a spouse’s death
- People filing only to claim refundable credits
To avoid common errors when filing a tax return, first-time filers and all taxpayers should:
- Make sure each name and SSN or ITIN are listed exactly as printed on the individual’s Social Security card issued by the Social Security Administration or the ITIN notice issued by the IRS.
- Choose the correct filing status. The Interactive Tax Assistant on IRS.gov can help you choose the correct status, especially if more than one filing status applies. Tax software also helps prevent mistakes with filing status.
- Double check your math. Calculation errors are some of the most common mistakes. They range from simple addition and subtraction to more complex calculations. Check your calculations, or better yet, use tax return preparation software that does it automatically.
- Double check your bank account numbers. Taxpayers who are due a refund should choose direct deposit. This is the fastest way for taxpayers to get their money. It’s important to make sure the correct routing transit number and account number are used.
- Sign your return. An unsigned tax return isn’t valid. In most cases, both spouses must sign a joint return. Exceptions may apply for members of the armed forces or other taxpayers who have executed a valid power of attorney.
