Top 5 Tax Season Mistakes — and How You Can Avoid Them
Tax season can feel overwhelming, but many of the most common issues we see each year are completely avoidable. Whether you're a first-time filer or a long-time client, avoiding these mistakes can help ensure a smoother and less stressful filing process — for both you and your tax preparer.
Here are the top five mistakes we encounter every year — and how you can avoid them:
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute
The Problem:
Delaying your tax prep increases the risk of missing documents, filing errors, or rushed decisions. It can also limit your ability to resolve surprises (like a tax balance due).
Avoid It:
Start gathering documents early and respond to organizer requests promptly. The earlier you file, the more time you give your tax team to do their best work.
2. Missing or Incomplete Documents
The Problem:
Whether it’s a missing W-2, 1099, or deduction receipt, incomplete paperwork is one of the biggest causes of delays.
Avoid It:
Use your tax organizer as a checklist. Before sending documents, double-check that everything is current, complete, and matches what you submitted last year — especially for income and deductions.
3. Not Updating Personal or Business Information
The Problem:
A change in address, bank account, marital status, or business structure can impact your filing — and missed updates may delay processing or refunds.
Avoid It:
Let your tax preparer know if anything significant has changed since your last return. This includes new dependents, updated contact info, or any changes in how you earn income.
4. Guessing on Numbers or “Estimating” Deductions
The Problem:
Rounding or estimating may seem easier in the moment, but it can trigger IRS review — and it may cause inaccuracies in your return.
Avoid It:
Provide clear, detailed, and accurate documentation for all deductions, income, and credits. When in doubt, leave a note for your preparer rather than making assumptions.
5. Not Asking Questions
The Problem:
Some clients are hesitant to ask questions, fearing they’ll sound uninformed. But misunderstandings can lead to missed deductions or preventable errors.
Avoid It:
There are no bad questions. Our team is here to help — and it’s always better to clarify early than fix mistakes later.
Let’s Make This Season Smooth
At Momentum Accounting & Tax, we’ve seen it all — and we’re here to guide you through it. By avoiding these common mistakes, you're setting yourself up for a successful tax season.
📩 Have questions or need help getting started? Reach out to us at info@momentumati.com or give us a call at (719) 219‑1040.
Let’s make this your smoothest tax season yet.
