Make these last-minute checks to avoid long-lasting tax filing problems.

CHICAGO, April 7, 2025 – As last-minute tax filers race to meet this year’s fast-approaching April 15 income tax filing deadline, the Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS) encourages a pause to double-check for easily avoided mistakes that, no matter how seemingly miniscule, can create filing problems and delays. To make sure you file error-free federal and state tax returns, double-check these important areas on your tax forms:

• Your Filing Status: This is the first item on your IRS Form 1040, and yet ticking the right box can often be overlooked. You have just four choices to choose from, but if you were married, divorced, widowed, or your household situation changed during 2024, it should be reflected here.
• Your Name(s): What should be the easiest portion of your tax return often gets forgotten. A misspelled first or last name, a missing middle initial, or a formal name change for a spouse that’s not correctly listed could create a filing nightmare. Ensure names match what’s on file with the Social Security Administration.
• Your Social Security Number(s): As with your name, a missing or incorrect Social Security number can create unexpected problems. Social Security numbers serve as individual tax identification numbers and must be included.
• Your Direct Deposit Information: If you’re due a tax refund, a direct deposit in your bank account is the fastest and most secure way to get it from the IRS—but make sure the routing number, account number, and account type (checking or savings) are all correct. Errors with any of these details can cause delays, lost refunds, or the IRS mailing a paper check.
• Your Signature: Whether you self-prepare or work with a CPA to prepare and file your state and federal tax returns, it’s a lot of work. After all that, the only way they can be officially filed is if they’re signed and dated.
• Your Calendar: While this isn’t on your tax return, all 2024 individual tax returns are due by midnight on April 15. If you simply can’t get your taxes filed in time, you must file IRS Form 4868 to request a six-month filing extension. But beware, if you think or know you owe taxes to the IRS or Illinois Department of Revenue, you must still make an estimated payment by the April 15 filing deadline or interest and potential penalties may be charged on the amount due. If you’re granted an extension for filing your federal income tax return, you’re automatically granted an extension for filing your Illinois income tax return, but if taxes are owed to Illinois, you must file Form IL-505-I, Automatic Extension Payment for Individuals, to avoid penalties and interest on taxes not paid by the original filing deadline.

Filing federal and state tax returns is a complicated process. ICPAS reminds taxpayers that CPAs, certified public accountants, are ready to help. ICPAS’ free “Find a CPA” directory can help you find the trusted, strategic advisor that’s right for you based on location, types of services needed, and languages spoken. Find your CPA at www.icpas.org/findacpa.