Information Does Not Match IRS2Go: Common Issues and Fixes

The IRS2Go app is a widely used tool for tracking refund status, paying taxes, and accessing tax records. However, users sometimes encounter discrepancies between the app’s information and their expectations, causing confusion during tax season. Identifying common causes of these mismatches and resolving them is crucial for accurate filings and avoiding delays.

Incorrect or Outdated Personal Info

A common issue with IRS2Go stems from incorrect or outdated personal information, such as names, Social Security numbers, or addresses. These errors often result from typos during filing or unreported changes like a legal name change due to marriage or divorce. If IRS records are not updated, refund status may become inaccessible.

The IRS requires tax return information to match their records for secure processing. Any mismatch can delay or even reject a return. Taxpayers should confirm their personal details against their most recent tax return and promptly report updates to the IRS. This can be done by filing Form 8822, Change of Address, or updating information through the IRS website.

Filing Status or Dependent Data Discrepancies

Filing status and dependent data errors often arise from misunderstandings or mistakes when selecting a filing status, such as Single, Married Filing Jointly, or Head of Household. Each status has specific requirements and implications. For instance, claiming Head of Household requires maintaining a home for a qualifying person for more than half the year, as outlined in IRS Publication 501.

Dependent data issues occur when taxpayers incorrectly list dependents or fail to meet IRS eligibility criteria. Dependents must satisfy specific conditions related to age, residency, relationship, and support, as defined in IRS rules. A frequent mistake involves claiming a dependent already listed by another taxpayer, which can delay processing or result in a rejected return. Taxpayers should carefully verify dependent eligibility and ensure accurate Social Security numbers to avoid these problems.

Employer or Self-Employment Income Mismatch

Income discrepancies between taxpayer filings and IRS records can create significant issues, particularly with employer-reported wages or self-employment income. These mismatches often stem from errors in Form W-2 or Form 1099 submissions. Employers are required to provide accurate wage and tax statements to both employees and the IRS. Any discrepancies can trigger IRS scrutiny, leading to delays or audits. For example, incorrect wage reporting by an employer may prompt the IRS system to flag the return for further review.

Self-employed individuals face similar challenges, especially when managing income from multiple sources. Accurate reporting on Schedule C of Form 1040 is essential. The IRS closely monitors self-employment income to prevent underreporting. Taxpayers should maintain detailed records and reconcile reported income with actual earnings. This includes cross-checking income against bank statements, invoices, and Form 1099-NECs, which are subject to the self-employment tax rate of 15.3% as of 2024.

Transcription Errors in E-Filing

Transcription errors during e-filing can disrupt tax return accuracy. These mistakes often occur during manual data entry into tax software, where even minor errors, such as transposed numbers or incorrect employer identification numbers, can lead to mismatched IRS records. These errors may trigger automated reviews, delaying refunds or complicating compliance.

While e-filing has streamlined the tax process, it depends heavily on accurate data entry. Taxpayers and preparers should thoroughly review all entries before submission. Features like auto-fill, cross-verification with original documents, and built-in software checks can help reduce errors. For complex returns, professional tax preparation services offer additional safeguards through rigorous checks, minimizing the risk of mistakes in cases involving extensive or intricate data.