Tax Season Document Checklist: What to Gather Before You File

Gathering your records early makes tax preparation faster and helps you avoid mistakes. Use this list as a starting point. Your own list may be shorter or longer.

For everyone

Photo ID and Social Security numbers or ITINs for you, your spouse, and your dependents
Last year’s tax return
Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of a refund
Any IRS or state notices you received during the year
Records of estimated tax payments you made

Income documents

Forms W-2 from employers
Forms 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC for contract and other income
Forms 1099-K from payment apps and online platforms
Forms 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, and 1099-B for interest, dividends, and investment sales
Form 1099-G for unemployment or state refunds
Retirement income forms, such as Forms 1099-R and SSA-1099
Your own records of income that has no form. The income is taxable even when no form arrives.

Deduction and credit documents

Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098) and property tax bills
Student loan interest (Form 1098-E) and tuition (Form 1098-T)
Child care expenses and the provider’s name and tax ID
Medical expenses, if you itemize
Charitable donation receipts
Retirement and HSA contribution records

If you are self-employed or own a business

Profit and loss statement, or your bookkeeping reports. See month-end close.
Bank and credit card statements
Receipts for expenses. See what to scan and keep.
Mileage log. See how to keep a mileage log.
Contractor payment records and Forms W-9
Payroll reports, if you have employees
Asset purchases and sales

If you have a foreign-owned U.S. LLC

Records of every transaction between the LLC and its owner. See Form 5472 explained.
State annual report confirmations

Tips

Wait for all your forms before you file. Some arrive in mid-February or later.
Check names and numbers on each form.
Do not toss records after you file. See the IRS guide How long should I keep records?

Ready to file? Book a call with FlowTex.

Sources

This article is general information, not tax advice. Your documents depend on your situation.