It happens to the best of us: We work on our income tax preparation, think we have all our ducks in a row, send in our return ... and we find out there's an error delaying our IRS tax refund. The tax refund calculator we relied upon to get us in the ballpark wasn't accurate enough or easy enough to use to do the job. Most of the time the IRS can catch simple math mistakes and correct them so that no further action is required on your part. Other times, there is missing information that requires the taxpayer to submit a Form 1040X, or amended return. This situation can be stressful, but it is fixable. Submit the 1040X by the return's due date, or, if you expect to get money back, submit it after you receive your check. If you have filed electronically, you can't make changes to the filing once the form has been accepted. File an amendment as soon as possible, and include any supplemental forms you may have forgotten.

"What can I do to cut my federal taxes?" Who hasn't asked himself or herself that question, especially after getting caught owing the IRS? Use professional-grade software - available here at low cost - to calculate federal taxes accurately, then carry over your information next year for a consistently reliable, safe and stress-free annual filing.

Still debating on what program to use? Always double-check the accuracy of your program or your preparer, even a trusted one. If you see too many discrepancies, come to us. We can provide you with an accurate alternative at a fraction of the price.

By using a tax refund calculator early in the season each year, you'll never be caught by surprise. It is so inexpensive, simple and accurate that in the time it takes you to say, "Please, cut my federal taxes," you have completed all your paperwork. And, that information is secured with encryption, so there's no risk in trying out something new.