The Internal Revenue Service has issued a series of tips and reminders to speed taxpayer refunds and avoid errors on their federal tax returns as the April 15 filing deadline approaches.

Collect all tax-related paperwork

Taxpayers should gather all documents including W-2s, 1099s and other information returns, as well as any supporting paperwork for tax deductions or credits such as educational credits or mortgage interest payments. Having the previous year’s tax return accessible is also advised as it may be required. Taxpayers can also check their IRS Individual Online Account to view their Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, and Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, under the Records and Status tab in the taxpayer’s Individual Online Account.

Ensure required info is correct

Taxpayers must accurately provide the name, date of birth and SSN for each dependent listed on their individual income tax return. The SSN and individual’s name should be entered precisely as indicated on the Social Security card. In cases where a dependent or spouse lacks an SSN and is ineligible to obtain one, an assigned individual tax identification number (ITIN) should be listed instead of an SSN.

Use electronic filing

The IRS advises taxpayers and their tax advisors to use electronic filing methods such as IRS Free File, Free File Fillable Forms or with Direct File. Electronic filing decreases mathematical errors, identifies potential tax credits or deductions for which the taxpayer qualifies and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Opting for electronic filing and selecting direct deposit is the fastest and safest way to receive a refund.

While taxpayers and tax professionals are urged to choose electronic filing when filing individual tax returns, there are taxpayers who must submit a paper tax return. It is essential that paper filers verify the accurate mailing address either on IRS.gov or in the instructions provided with Form 1040 to prevent processing delays.

Report all taxable income

Most income is subject to taxation. Failing to accurately report income may result in interest and penalties. Taxable income includes various sources of income such as interest earnings, unemployment benefits and income derived from the service industry, gig economy and digital assets.

For further details, consult Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income.

Verify bank routing and account numbers

Taxpayers have the option to request direct deposit of a federal refund into one, two or even three accounts. For taxpayers who do not have a traditional bank account, some mobile apps and prepaid debit cards have routing and account numbers that allow for direct deposit of tax refunds. When expecting a refund, ensure the routing and account numbers provided for direct deposit are accurate to avoid delays or misdirected refunds.

Remember to sign and date the return

When submitting a joint return, both spouses must sign and date the return. If taxpayers are preparing their taxes independently and filing electronically, they need to sign and authenticate their electronic tax return by inputting their adjusted gross income from the prior year. For more guidance, visit Validating your electronically filed tax return.

Need to make a payment

Tax payments are still due on April 15 for most taxpayers. Payments can be made using Individual Online Account, Direct Pay, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) or with a debit/credit card or digital wallet. By doing so, taxpayers avoid the necessity of filing a separate extension form and receive a confirmation number for their records.

Request an extension if needed

Taxpayers requiring more time to file their taxes can easily request a six-month extension until Oct. 15. The IRS offers three options to request an extension to file:

Pay what you owe using an online payment option and check the box that you are paying as part of filing for an extension.

Requested at no cost either through IRS Free File regardless of income, or

By submitting Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, by April 15.

While an extension avoids late filing penalties and provides extra time for filing, an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. Taxpayers can seek an extension to file by making a full or partial payment of their estimated income tax and indicating that the payment is for an extension.

Keep a copy of the tax return

Taxpayers should maintain copies of their signed return and any accompanying schedules for their personal records and to help them prepare future tax returns and figure mathematical computations in the event they have to file an amended return.