The IRS has opened the gates for the 2026 tax season, and the race for refunds is on. But in your haste to hit “submit,” you might be tripping over simple hurdles that will leave your money stuck in bureaucratic limbo. The IRS uses automated filters to screen returns, and any tiny discrepancy sends your file from the “fast lane” to the “manual review” pile. Once you are in manual review, you are looking at weeks, if not months, of waiting. Speed is the enemy of accuracy here, and taking ten extra minutes now can save you ten weeks of waiting later.
1. The “John” vs. “Jonathan” Mismatch
The IRS computer matches your name exactly to the Social Security Administration database. If you write “Jon Smith” on your tax return but your Social Security card says “Jonathan Smith,” the system flags it. It seems petty, but it is an automatic identity theft trigger. Consequently, you must use the exact spelling on your card, even if you never use that name in real life.
2. Incorrect Bank Account Numbers
This is the most painful mistake. If you transpose one digit on your direct deposit routing or account number, the IRS will try to deposit the money, get a rejection from the bank, and then have to cut a paper check. This process adds at least 3-4 weeks to your timeline. Triple-check those digits before you click submit.
3. Forgetting the “Gig” Forms (1099-K)
If you drove for Uber or sold on Etsy, the IRS has a copy of your 1099-K. If you file your return without including that income, the “Underreported” filter catches it immediately. They will hold your refund and send you a notice proposing a change. You can’t hide side hustle income anymore; the data matching is too good.
4. Math Errors on the Child Tax Credit
The rules for the Child Tax Credit changed again this year with inflation adjustments. If you try to calculate this manually and get the number wrong, the IRS “Math Error Authority” kicks in. They pause the return to recalculate it. Use tax software that updates automatically; do not try to do this math on a napkin.
5. Filing Before You Have All Documents
You want your money now, so you file with your W-2. But two weeks later, a 1099-INT from your savings account arrives. Now you have to file an Amended Return (1040-X). Amended returns take up to 16 weeks to process. Patience prevents amendments. Wait until you have every single form in hand.
6. The “dependent” Double Claim
If you are divorced, ensure you and your ex aren’t both claiming the same child. The first return gets accepted; the second one gets rejected instantly. If you are the second filer (even if you are legally right), you have to file by paper and prove your case, which takes months. Coordinate this beforehand.
7. Missing the Signature
If you file by paper (which you shouldn’t), forgetting to sign it is a guaranteed rejection. But even e-filing requires a digital signature (your PIN or AGI from last year). If you get last year’s AGI wrong, the signature fails. Check your transcript from last year before starting.
8. Ignoring the “Identity PIN”
If you were a victim of identity theft in the past, the IRS sent you a 6-digit IP PIN. You *must* enter this pin to file. If you leave it off, the return bounces. You cannot opt-out of the PIN once you are in the program.
Slow Down to Get Paid Fast
The fastest way to get your refund is to file a perfect return once. A messy return filed early is slower than a perfect return filed late.
Are you worried about making a mistake this year? Tell us your tax anxiety in the comments.
What to Read Next…
- 7 Signs Your Tax Refund is Being Held Up by the New 2026 IRS Protocols
- Why Your 2026 Tax Refund Might Be Delayed: 5 Red Flags to Watch For
- 7 Times the IRS Can Hold Your Refund Without Telling You Right Away
The post 8 Tax Filing Mistakes That Can Delay Refunds for Weeks appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
