Preparing for a tax appointment can feel overwhelming, but being organized is the key to a smooth and efficient process. To ensure your tax preparer has everything they need to file an accurate return and maximize your refund, use this comprehensive checklist.
Personal Information
- Social Security Cards: For you, your spouse, and all dependents.
- Photo ID: Driver's license or state ID card.
- Bank Account Details: Routing and account numbers for direct deposit of your refund.
- Prior Year's Tax Return: Helpful for reference and comparison.
Income Documents
- W-2 Forms: From all employers you worked for during the year.
- 1099-NEC: For freelance or self-employment income.
- 1099-INT/DIV: Interest and dividend statements.
- 1099-R: Distributions from retirement accounts or pensions.
- SSA-1099: Social Security benefits statement.
- 1099-G: Unemployment compensation.
- Alimony Received: Amount and the payer's Social Security number (for agreements pre-2019).
Expense Documents (Deductions & Credits)
- Mortgage Interest Statement (1098): Home mortgage interest paid.
- Property Tax Bills: Proof of real estate taxes paid.
- Medical Expenses: Receipts for doctors, dentists, hospitals, prescriptions, and health insurance premiums (if itemizing).
- Charitable Donations: Receipts for cash and non-cash contributions.
- Child Care Expenses: Provider's name, address, tax ID (SSN/EIN), and amount paid.
- Education Expenses (1098-T): Tuition statements for you or your dependents.
- Student Loan Interest (1098-E): Interest paid on student loans.
For Homeowners & Investors
- Energy Credits: Receipts for energy-efficient home improvements (windows, solar, etc.).
- Stock Sales (1099-B): Brokerage statements showing cost basis and sales proceeds.
Conclusion
Arriving at your tax appointment with a complete set of documents not only speeds up the process but also ensures you don't miss out on valuable deductions. If you're unsure about a specific document, bring it along just in case!
Ready to file? Schedule your appointment with Sanjay TaxPro today.