Avoiding Errors When Entering Information

Article: 50569

Overview 

When filling out your return, it is important to carefully review each section to ensure the information is complete and accurate. Incorrect or extra entries can cause error messages that prevent you from moving forward. 

Key Tips for Entering Information 

  • Complete all required fields: Make sure you have entered all information requested on the form. 
  • Leave non-applicable fields blank: If you have no information for a section, you can leave it completely blank. Do not enter zeroes unless specifically instructed. 
  • Avoid extra zeroes: Extra digits (for example, typing “0000” instead of leaving a field empty) can trigger errors. 

Error Messages  

If something is missing or entered incorrectly: 

  • When you click Next or Save, an error message will appear at the top of the screen in red
  • The error message will tell you exactly what needs to be corrected before you can move forward. 

Example 

  • If you leave the required Social Security Number field incomplete, clicking Next will display a red error message at the top of the page instructing you to enter the missing SSN. 
  • If you type “0” in a field that should be blank, the system may also display an error message until it is corrected. 

Tip: Always double-check your entries before moving on. Correcting small mistakes early will save you time and prevent errors later in the filing process.