What to gather for your tax return
Not everything applies to everyone. Gather what you have, upload it as it arrives, and I'll help you find anything that's missing.
About you and your family
The basics I need for everyone on your return.
- Last year's tax returnsFederal and state
- Photo IDFor you and your spouse, if filing jointly
- Social Security numbers and birth datesFor you, your spouse, and your dependents
- Identity Protection PINIf the IRS sent you one
- Bank routing and account numberFor a direct-deposit refund or payment
Money you received
Most of these forms arrive by the end of January. Brokerage statements often come in mid-February or later.
- W-2sFrom every employer you worked for during the year
- 1099-NEC and 1099-MISCFreelance, contract, and other income
- 1099-KPayments through apps, card processors, or online marketplaces
- 1099-INT and 1099-DIVBank interest and dividends
- 1099-BSales of stocks, funds, or cryptocurrency
- 1099-R and SSA-1099Retirement, pension, and Social Security income
- 1099-GUnemployment benefits or a state tax refund
- Schedule K-1From a partnership, S corporation, estate, or trust
Money you paid
These can lower your tax bill. Bring them even if you're not sure they'll count.
- Form 1098Mortgage interest statement
- Property tax billsReal estate and personal property, like vehicles
- Childcare costsProvider's name, address, tax ID, and amount paid
- 1098-T or 1098-ECollege tuition or student loan interest
- Charitable donation receiptsCash and non-cash gifts
- Form 1095-ARequired if you had Marketplace health insurance
- 1099-SA and 5498-SAHealth savings account (HSA) activity
- Estimated tax paymentsDates and amounts paid to the IRS and your state
Self-employment, rentals, and life changes
Running a side business? See taxes for the self-employed for more on what to track.
- Business income and expensesA profit and loss report, or your records and receipts
- Vehicle mileage logBusiness miles driven during the year
- Home office detailsSquare footage of the office and the whole home
- Rental property recordsRent received, expenses, and purchase details
- Home purchase or saleClosing statements
- Moved to a new state?The date you moved, for part-year state returns
- Any tax letters you receivedFrom the IRS or your state during the year
Checklist FAQ
What if I can't find one of my forms?
Tell me what's missing. Many forms can be downloaded from your employer, bank, or brokerage website, and I'll help you figure out where to look.
Can I send documents as they arrive?
Yes. You can upload documents through your secure link whenever they come in. I'll start once everything is there and let you know if anything is missing.
Do I need receipts for every deduction?
You should keep records that support what you claim. For most people, a summary is enough to prepare the return, as long as you keep the details in case the IRS asks.
How do I send my documents securely?
You'll get a link to a secure online portal. There's no need to email sensitive documents or visit an office.
Got your documents together?
Book a free call, and I'll send you a secure link to upload everything.