It’s that time of year: tax season! Here is a handy checklist of some of the information or forms you may need to file this year. Not everything may apply to you, so refer to the areas that do and start gathering all your documents.
Personal Information
You’ll need the social security numbers, legal full names and date of births for you, your spouse and all your dependents.
If you aren’t sure if you have dependents, click here.
If anyone in your household has received an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS, you’ll need this on hand as well.
If you need to get an Identity Protection PIN or have one but aren't sure how to find it, click here.
You may also need last year's tax information (either a copy of your return or a tax transcript).
If you don't have a copy of your return or a transcript, click here.
Information And Forms For How You Earned Your Income (If You’re An Employee Or Independent Contractor)
If You Own A Business
Business income: Whether for business or farming, you’ll need a profit or loss statement for the business.
If You’re Retired
Other Sources Of Income
Income from the government: You’ll receive a 1099-G for state refunds and any unemployment you’ve received.
Rental income and expenses: You’ll want a profit and loss statement ready as well as any information
Canceled debt: 1099-C
Foreign Person's U.S. Source Income Subject to Withholding: 1042-S
Other miscellaneous income: Gambling winnings (W-2G), scholarships, jury duty, etc which may be reported on a 1099-MISC and are reported on the Schedule 1
Adjustments To Income Claimed On Schedule 1
IRA contributions from traditional IRA
Educator Expenses
Student loan interest which is reported on the 1098-E
Self-employed health insurance premium payments
Self employed retirement plans
Alimony: Please see is the alimony paid to my ex spouse deductible?
Health Savings Account contributions
Deduction And Credit Information
Certain deductions are only relevant if you are itemizing your return vs taking the standard deduction. If you are going to claim any of these deductions or credits, you’ll need to have supporting documentation.
Education costs: 1098-T, education expenses
Child care costs: provider's name, address, tax id, and amount paid
Home office: home size, office size, etc. Please see here for more information.
Mortgage interest statement: Form 1098
Adoption costs: SSN of child, legal, medical, and transportation costs
Charitable Donations
Casualty and theft losses
Energy credits
Taxes Paid
Real estate taxes paid
State and local income taxes paid
Estimated tax payments made during the tax year including any extension payments or carry forward refunds
Foreign bank account information
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need specific advice.