Tax Season Checklist: Everything You Need Before You File

Tax season has a way of sneaking up on people. One day it's January and you have plenty of time, and the next it's mid-March and you're scrambling to find last year's return and that one 1099 you almost forgot about. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. Having the right documents ready before you sit down to file — or before you hand things off to a tax professional — can save you time, reduce stress, and help make sure nothing gets missed.

Personal Information

This sounds basic, but it's easy to overlook when you're focused on the financial documents.

• Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and all dependents
• Government-issued photo ID
• Last year's tax return — helpful for reference and often required by tax preparers
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of your refund

Income Documents

Gather everything that documents money you received during the tax year. Employers and financial institutions are required to issue these by January 31st.

• W-2 — from each employer you worked for during the year
• 1099-NEC — if you did any freelance, contract, or self-employed work
• 1099-MISC — for rent, prizes, or other miscellaneous income
• 1099-INT — interest income from bank accounts
• 1099-DIV — dividend income from investments
• 1099-G — unemployment compensation or state tax refunds
• SSA-1099 — if you received Social Security benefits

Deductions & Credits

Don't leave money on the table. Gather documentation for anything that might reduce your tax bill.

• 1098 — mortgage interest statement if you own a home
• 1098-E — student loan interest paid
• 1098-T — tuition payments for education credits
• Childcare provider name, address, and EIN (for the Child & Dependent Care Credit)
• Charitable donation receipts
• Medical expenses, if significant
• Property tax statements

If You're Self-Employed or Have Business Income

• Records of all business income
• Business expense receipts (supplies, software, subscriptions, marketing, etc.)
• Mileage log if you used a vehicle for business
• Home office square footage if you work from home
• Records of quarterly estimated tax payments made during the year
• Health insurance premiums paid out of pocket

One Final Tip

Create a simple folder — physical or digital — and drop documents in as they arrive in January and February. By the time you're ready to file, everything will be in one place. Future you will be grateful.