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Tax Preparation Checklist


Tax season can be overwhelming, but having a clear checklist can help you stay organized and maximize your deductions. Use this comprehensive tax prep checklist to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information ready before filing your taxes.

 

Personal Information

  • Social Security numbers (SSNs) or Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TINs) for yourself, spouse, and dependents

  • Previous year’s tax return (for reference)

  • Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of refunds

Income Documents

  • W-2 forms from employers

  • 1099 forms for freelance, gig work, rental income, or other independent contractor earnings (1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, 1099-K, 1099-G, etc.)

  • Investment income statements (1099-INT for interest income, 1099-DIV for dividends, 1099-B for stock sales, 1099-R for retirement income)

  • Social Security benefits statement (SSA-1099)

  • Unemployment benefits statement (1099-G)

  • Business income records (profit and loss statements, invoices, and receipts)

  • Rental income and expense records

  • Alimony received (if applicable)

  • Cryptocurrency transactions and gains/losses documentation

Deductions & Credits

  • Mortgage interest statement (Form 1098)

  • Property tax payment receipts

  • Student loan interest statement (Form 1098-E)

  • Tuition and education expenses (Form 1098-T)

  • Medical and dental expenses (if exceeding IRS thresholds)

  • Charitable donation receipts (cash and non-cash contributions)

  • IRA and retirement account contributions

  • Childcare expenses (including provider's name, address, and tax ID)

  • Energy-efficient home improvement receipts (solar, HVAC, windows, etc.)

  • State and local tax payments

  • Job-related expenses (for eligible deductions)

Business & Self-Employed Deductions

  • Home office expenses (utilities, rent/mortgage percentage, internet, etc.)

  • Vehicle mileage and expenses (if used for business)

  • Advertising and marketing expenses

  • Equipment and supplies purchases

  • Health insurance premiums (for self-employed individuals)

  • Estimated tax payments made throughout the year

Credits & Special Situations

  • Child Tax Credit (CTC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

  • Adoption tax credit documentation

  • American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning Credit for education

  • Healthcare marketplace statement (Form 1095-A, if applicable)

Other Documents

  • Any IRS correspondence or notices received

  • Identity Protection PIN (if issued by the IRS)

  • Bank statements for verification

  • Legal documents related to divorce, child support, or settlements

Final Steps Before Filing

  • Review all documents for accuracy

  • Consult with a tax professional for advice on deductions and credits

  • Ensure all necessary forms are included before submission

  • Consider e-filing for faster processing and refund

By gathering these documents early, you can streamline the filing process and avoid delays or errors. Need expert assistance? Contact our team at Taxperts for personalized tax preparation services!