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Tax Season Checklist

Tax Preparation

A practical checklist to help you gather documents, avoid common delays, and prepare for a smooth filing season.

Educational content only — not tax, legal, or financial advice. For guidance tailored to your situation, please contact us.

Before you start

  • Confirm your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.).
  • Collect Social Security numbers / ITINs for everyone on the return.
  • Verify last year’s return (carryovers, basis info, depreciation schedules).

Income documents

  • W-2s (wages)
  • 1099-NEC / 1099-MISC (contract work, misc income)
  • 1099-INT / 1099-DIV / 1099-B (interest, dividends, brokerage)
  • 1099-R (retirement distributions)
  • K-1s (partnerships, S-corps, trusts)

Common deductions & credits (examples)

  • Mortgage interest (Form 1098), property taxes
  • Charitable contributions (cash + non-cash receipts)
  • Childcare expenses (provider name/EIN)
  • Education expenses (1098-T, student loan interest 1098-E)
  • Health insurance (1095-A/B/C when applicable)

Deadlines to keep in mind

  • Individual returns are typically due in April (extensions available).
  • Quarterly estimates may apply if you have self-employment or investment income.
  • If you extend, you still generally need to pay any expected tax by the original due date.

Quick tips to reduce surprises

  • If you moved, update your address with USPS and relevant accounts.
  • Keep a simple folder per year for receipts and forms.
  • Ask early about missing forms (brokerage/K-1s can arrive later).

Want help applying this to your situation?

We can review your goals, documents, and next steps together. Reach out via the contact form on the home page.

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