Deadline for filing tax returns with the tax office IRS Ends today (April 15) at 11:59 PM ET. While many people have filed their taxes once the February window opens, many will be rushing to do so at the last minute.
If you’re rushing to file your taxes in the final hours of Wednesday’s deadline, you need to be cautious. Last minute submission errors will result in rejection and subsequent penalties for late submission. Therefore, it is crucial to follow all steps correctly when submitting your income tax.
In this article, we’ll look at four key last-minute mistakes taxpayers need to be aware of to ensure a smooth, accurate tax return filing.
4 last-minute mistakes taxpayers should avoid
1. Spelling is important
Even if there’s a tiny typo in your name, social Security Number or bank details may result in returns being refused or delayed. Make sure all personal information exactly matches official records.
2. Don’t miss your signature
For those filing manually, forgetting to sign a tax return may render it invalid. If you submit electronically, please be sure to complete the digital verification process with the correct PIN or credentials.
3. Include all sources of income
One of the most common mistakes is failing to report all sources of income. This includes freelancing, side hustles, investments, or rental income. Missing any revenue may trigger a notification or audit later.
Also read: America’s new tax slogan: “The IRS won’t catch me”
4. Check application status carefully
Choosing the wrong filing status: single, married filing jointly, or head of household, for example, can affect your tax liability and refund. Please review qualifications carefully before filing your tax return.
What happens if your return is rejected at the last minute
For each month your return is late, the IRS penalty for failing to file is 5% of the tax owed, up to a maximum of 25% of the unpaid tax. If your return is more than 60 days late, the minimum penalty for a 2026 return is $525, or 100% of the unpaid tax, whichever is less.
In addition, the IRS charges interest on unpaid taxes, which is currently the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points. Interest charged by the IRS on taxes is compounded daily.
