Tax Preparation Document Checklist

Start with an organized set of records

Gather documents before your appointment and group them by tax year, person or entity, and category. This checklist covers common records—not everything your return may require. Tell your preparer about significant changes and request a checklist tailored to your situation.

Personal and household records

• Last year’s federal and state returns, current contact details, and relevant identity information.
• An IRS identity-protection PIN, if applicable, shared only through the agreed secure process.
• W-2s, applicable 1099s, Social Security benefit statements, and digital-asset transaction records.
• Form 1095-A if you had Marketplace health coverage.

Sources: IRS document guide and IRS preparation checklist.

Potential deductions, credits, and payments

As applicable, organize records for education, childcare, retirement contributions, charitable gifts, mortgage interest, property taxes, healthcare expenses, and estimated tax payments. A receipt alone does not establish eligibility for a deduction or credit; ask which supporting details apply to your return.

Source: IRS guidance on records for credits, deductions, and payments.

Business and self-employment records

• Income-and-expense summaries and supporting bank statements, invoices, receipts, and payment records.
• Applicable payroll records and mileage logs.
• Details of business assets purchased, improved, or sold.

Keep supporting documents even when transactions also appear in accounting software. Track missing items and clearly label corrected forms.

Source: IRS business recordkeeping guidance.

General educational information only—not individualized tax, legal, or accounting advice. Requirements depend on your circumstances and may change. Consult a qualified professional before acting.