Tips to avoid last-minute tax mistakes

Waited to the last minute to file your taxes? You're not alone. With the dreaded Thursday, April 15 deadline inching closer, here are some tips to help you limit the mistakes typically made while rushing to file your taxes.

Last-minute tax flubs are more common than you think. Here are some common slip ups and ways how to avoid them:

Incorrect bank account information
Be extremely careful when typing in your bank account numbers and routing numbers for those who file electronically for direct deposit of funds. It's simple. If you don't type the right numbers, your money will end up into some other person's account. This year, the IRS allows up to three accounts for your refund... three times to be extra careful.

The wrong social security number
Let's say you forget to put down a dependent's social security number... or you punch in the wrong one. The child tax credit, the earned income tax credit and the child and dependent care credit could be lost.

Paying taxes on unemployment benefits
Up to $2,400 in unemployment benefits are tax free this year, so make sure you subtract this amount out before paying your taxes.

Not signing your return
Remember to sign your return! A return that is not-signed is considered invalid by the IRS.

Missing deductions
Missing deductions on tax breaks can completely change your return. Although you may not be able to justify itemizing due to the amount of deductions, there may still be tax breaks available to you as a non-itemizer. Have you bought a new car? If the car was bought before January 1, 2010, you can claim state and local taxes on the vehicle for up to $49,000. If you don't have enough mortgage interest on your home to itemize, or you have paid off your home, you are able to deduct state and local property taxes on your home.

Confused about medical expenses
Only unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income can be deducted. The good news? Transportation and even parking can be deducted, along with unreimbursed dental costs, eyeglasses and co-payments.