Double-check your tax return to avoid these common, costly errors

0 Comments | USA TODAY, April, 2008 | by Sandra Block

With the deadline for filing your 2007 tax return just a week away, it's helpful to remember the lessons you learned in the fifth grade. What did your teacher tell you just before you handed in your arithmetic test? Check your work.

Each year, millions of people overpay their taxes -- or pay too little -- because they make math errors, type in incorrect information or overlook deductions and credits. Here are some tips for avoiding last-minute blunders that could cost you money or prompt a sternly worded letter from the IRS:

*Double-check your Social Security numbers. The numbers on your tax return are matched against Social Security numbers in the IRS computers. If you write down the wrong Social Security number for one of your dependents, the IRS will...