Top 10 Filing Issues
Individual Income Tax Returns

1. Make sure the estimated payments claimed on the return match what was paid. If necessary, the taxpayer or representative with a power of attorney from the taxpayer can call the Department to verify the payments we have on file.
   
2. Provide a detailed explanation for amending a return and include documents/forms for support such as a federal 1040X, additional W2s, or a 2441 form.
   
3. Make sure the return is signed.
   
4. Complete county and school district in Step 1.
   
5. Do not use the long form (IA 1040) tax tables when computing tax on the short form (IA 1040A) or vice versa.
   
6. Do not mail a paper copy of the return after you have submitted your return electronically.
   
7. Do you meet the qualifications for exemption from tax? See IA 1040 line 26 instructions.
   
8. If you are a part-year or nonresident: Complete county and school district correctly in Step 1 on the IA 1040. Indicate if you are a part-year or nonresident on the IA126 schedule. Also provide move in or out dates on the IA126 schedule.
   
9. Step 1: "Is your address the same as last year? Yes or No." If this is the first time you are filing an Iowa return, check “No.”
   
10. Include copies of all W-2s and 1099s that report Iowa withholding. Don't forget the unemployment 1099-G form.