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5 common tax filing mistakes to avoid

5 common tax filing mistakes to avoid

Filing tax returns is one of the most important financial tasks of the year, and if you are distracted during the filing process, you could make mistakes. Any lapse in the filing process can make you miss out on larger refund claims and make you pay additional tax. Further, errors in the paperwork can result in added interest, penalties, and audits from the Internal Revenue Service. So here are tax filing mistakes to avoid:

Missing deadlines
The most common tax filing mistake to avoid is missing the return filing deadline. This can mean a 5% penalty on the amount due for each month or each partial month the return is delayed. The maximum penalty is capped at 25% of the total due amount. If you are about to miss the deadline, you can request an extension by filing Form 4868 before the tax-filing deadline, and you will receive more time to complete the paperwork.

Incorrect Social Security Number
Social Security Numbers are used by the IRS to cross-reference information collected from an employee against that received from the employer, bank, and other establishments. So accidentally typing an incorrect SSN can disrupt the process and result in a rejection of returns. Ensure that every digit is exactly as printed on the Social Security card.

Not signing your return
An unsigned return is considered invalid by the IRS so ensure that you send them a signed copy. If it is a joint filing, then your spouse will also need to sign the document. Further, if you have hired an agent to prepare the tax return, they must sign and provide their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number.

Spelling your name wrong
Misspelling one’s name is a common mistake many individuals make as people do not generally use their full legal name regularly. So fill in your name just as it appears on the Social Security cards. You can also update the Social Security Administration if you have changed your name. This will help avoid any red flags from your bank or the IRS when printing your name on the check.

Getting the bank account number wrong
Several individuals prefer the direct deposit option when filing for tax as this method gets them a refund quicker. However, an incorrect account number might lead to the IRS routing the money to an invalid account. While the bank will generally reroute the amount, the error will delay the process.

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6 foods to avoid before taking a flight

6 foods to avoid before taking a flight

Preparing for a flight is not only about what you pack into your bags but also what goes inside your stomach. Luxurious seating and business-class hospitality cannot compensate for a poorly planned meal before a flight. Changes in air pressure and density on board a flight cause a shift in meal requirements before and during one’s air journey. This article provides a list of foods that one should avoid before boarding a flight: Apples The proverb “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” cannot be more accurate, considering the abundance of antioxidants and vitamin C in apples. However, the fruit is extremely high in fiber content, which may cause problems with digestion and lead to bloating. Such issues can have a more severe impact while one is on board a flight. Hence, it is best to opt for fruits like oranges, berries, and papayas, which are easier to digest, before flight journeys. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are high in vital nutrients; however, they can be heavy on the stomach and trigger digestion issues. They are also rich in a sugar called raffinose, which often causes bloating. It helps to avoid cruciferous vegetables before a flight, swapping them with lighter foods like white rice, fermented foods, and instant oats.

5 surprising facts of long-haul flights

5 surprising facts of long-haul flights

While long-haul flights may be taxing, typically from one part of the world to another, luxury aircraft entails world-class facilities to ensure comfortable, hassle-free flight journeys for passengers. Such flights have collectively increased accessibility to cities and towns across the globe, allowing individuals to reach distant lands in relatively short periods. Today, several passengers board long-haul flights for commercial purposes and leisure. So, let’s take a look at some surprising facts about these flights: Almost every aircraft has some minor defect The sensors in a plane provide information to the team on the ground about any defects or problems in the aircraft. It has been observed that there are some minor defects in almost every aircraft, such as the jamming of a window. In case of significant issues, the team posted on the ground can directly contact the pilots. Flight attendants have a secret chamber Unbeknown to most long-haul flights, almost all have a secret room dedicated to flight attendants. This room helps flight attendants rest and avoid unruly passengers. They can access the cockpit and comprise bunks. Some of them entail business-class seats and a washroom. You may be traveling with a rhino No, it is not just a dog or cat taken on a flight.

Avoid these 6 camping pitfalls for a successful trip

Avoid these 6 camping pitfalls for a successful trip

Camping offers an escape into the mesmerizing outdoors. But it won’t do to pick a random day and leave with minimal belongings. A camping trip requires meticulous planning to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, and if you’re not careful, basic mistakes can easily disrupt your plans. From neglecting to plan to overlooking safety measures, here are some camping mistakes to be aware of to help prevent potential frustrations and setbacks during the trip. 6 things not to do when going camping Overpacking While it’s important to be prepared, overpacking can be a burden during a camping trip. Only bring essential items, such as a tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and appropriate clothing. Be mindful of weight and space limitations, especially if you are backpacking. Bringing unfamiliar equipment Bringing equipment that you are unfamiliar with can be a recipe for frustration and wasted time. It’s best to take the time to get familiarized with your camping gear before heading out on the trip so you know what to do once you arrive. New campers can also practice setting up the tent, use their cooking equipment, and understand any other tools or gadgets they plan on bringing. Setting up camp in unsuitable locations Choosing the right campsite is crucial for a comfortable and safe camping experience.

3 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

3 mistakes to avoid when traveling by train

Train journeys, especially the long ones, can be pretty exciting. Unlike flights, trains allow travelers to enjoy the landscapes they pass through. However, some make mistakes before or during the trip that spoil all the excitement and lead to unnecessary hassle. To ensure all goes well and that the individual has a pleasant travel experience, here are three common mistakes to avoid when traveling by train as far as possible. Booking tickets too late As with any means of travel, train tickets must be booked quickly. Waiting too long to complete the task might lead to all the tickets being sold out, which could delay one’s travel plans or, worse, lead to cancellations. The price of the tickets may also increase later. This surge can sometimes be double or triple the earlier cost. This means if one makes the bookings sooner, they might save a few bucks. Overpacking Overpacking is a bad idea, regardless of the mode of transportation. Many railways and trains have a specific limit for how much luggage passengers can carry. Some trains also have less storage space for luggage, which one might realize only after boarding. So, instead of encountering problems later, it is better to travel light and check luggage guidelines before packing.

5 things to avoid doing in hotels

5 things to avoid doing in hotels

One of the joys of traveling is getting comfortable hotel accommodation for your stay. Just as we expect great service from these hotels, they expect the guests to follow certain protocols to make the experience pleasurable. It is important to understand this tacit agreement. On that note, here are some vital tips to remind you of things that you should avoid doing when you are staying in a hotel. Keep the bathroom door shut Taking a hot shower at the end of the day and sliding into the comfy blanket is one of the perks of being in a hotel. However, make sure you keep the bathroom door shut. The steam from the shower can enter the room and trigger the fire alarm. Don’t cover the smoke alarms Almost all hotels always have a smoking room available for their guests, as they understand it is a requirement for some. However, some guests will take a room that comes with a smoke alarm and cover the smoke alarms whenever they wish to indulge in activities that may set off the alarm. Avoid using the throw pillows Some hotels have these delicate items in the room, like throw pillows to add some personality to the room.

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6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial.

4 travel mistakes to take a break from

4 travel mistakes to take a break from

Whether you are a novice wanderlust or have been to hundreds of places, mistakes are a part of the process. But, it is important to learn and avoid the mistakes that might ruin your journey. One of the common traveling mistakes to avoid is taking connecting flights as you might have to cancel or modify back-to-back bookings in case your first flight is delayed. Read on to know some other travel mistakes to avoid. Overpacking Choosing what to pack is a hard job. But being weighed down by your bulky suitcase is a lot more difficult. Start off with choosing the bag that is right for the duration of your trip. Don’t go for a big bag. The bigger the bag, the more will you be packing. With a smaller bag, you’ll only carry things necessary for the trip and there are no extra options. Moreover, with limited belongings, you can easily keep your hotel room clean. Visiting several destinations Taking time off from your routine does not mean you spend every minute of the couple of days you have off in traveling. It is a common mistake most travelers make and one that you need to avoided on your next trip.

Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021

Best upcoming Viking cruise deals in 2021

If you’ve been craving to travel and are ready to get back out there and explore the wonders, here’s some good news: the Viking Ocean Cruises are now operational! In this article, we’ve compiled the top four cruises just for you. We’ll discuss the dates, cruise itinerary, prices, and all that’s included in the said package. If you’ve wanted a fun-filled escape, now is your chance! Bermuda Escape – $1,799 pp If you’re someone who enjoys impromptu plans, this one’s for you! This seven-night cruise departs on June 15, 2021, from Hamilton. The itinerary includes cruising through the Atlantic ocean, St. George, and King’s Wharf. The cost includes a cabin with a private bathroom, Wi-Fi, select dining, most onboard entertainment options, shore excursions, room service, and basic hot and cold beverages. The price also includes port taxes and fees. Malta and The Western Mediterranean – $3,599 If you’d like to treat yourself and your family to an extended vacation, this 11-day cruise is perfect. The Viking cruise departs on July 27, 2021, and sails through three gorgeous countries – Malta, Italy, and Spain. The cruise also includes shore excursions on each port. You get a room with a private veranda, luxurious bath essentials, dining at an alternative restaurant, stateroom steward, twice-daily housekeeping, and a spa.

Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022

Top 3 river cruises to take in 2022

Cruise options in the past few months have been very limited, but things are surely going to change by 2022. Some river cruise liners are planning on embarking with every health and safety protocol in place. They will run with limited passengers, which means you will get a more intimate experience with less crowd. So, if you missed the waters, take a look at the three best river cruises that you can take in 2022. The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland Arena Travel brings a seven-night-long river cruise on their 4-star MS Arena vessel. Starting from Cologne, UK the cruise takes you to Rhine Gorge past the iconic Lorelei rock to Rüdesheim. On the third day, you reach Speyer and take in the sights of its museums and cathedrals. Next comes Strasbourg and then Basel, where travelers get to spend the day at the Swiss resort of Lucerne, Switzerland. Other cities include Breisach, Alsace, Mannheim, Heidelberg and Mainz. This river cruise sets sail in June and July 2022 with prices starting from approximately $1500 per passenger. Mekong River Cruise This 16-night-long tour package cruise by Smithsonian Journeys includes seven nights at the Mekong river. Passengers will visit three Southeast Asian countries: