Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re a first-time filer, self-employed, or a returning client, getting organized can make a huge difference in how smooth (and accurate) your tax preparation experience is.
At JTPS Advisory Co., we believe in empowering our clients with clarity and preparation. That’s why we’ve created this complete tax season checklist—so you know exactly what to gather before your appointment or upload.
✅ Why Preparation Matters
Gathering the right documents in advance helps:
- Ensure your return is accurate and complete
- Maximize your deductions and credits
- Avoid delays in filing or receiving your refund
- Give your tax professional everything needed to serve you efficiently
Whether you’re a W-2 employee, 1099 contractor, or business owner, this guide will walk you through what you need.
🗂️ Personal Information
Make sure you have these basics ready:
- Full legal names, Social Security Numbers, and birthdates for you, your spouse, and dependents
- Driver’s licenses or state ID cards (for identity verification)
- Bank routing and account numbers (for direct deposit or debit)
- Last year’s tax return (if not already on file with us)
💼 Income Documents
For Employees:
- W-2 forms from all employers
For Self-Employed / Freelancers / Contractors:
- 1099-NEC or 1099-K forms
- Invoices, payment records, and client receipts
- Records of business income not reported on 1099s
- Documentation of cash income (if applicable)
For Investors:
- 1099-INT (Interest income)
- 1099-DIV (Dividends)
- 1099-B (Stock sales)
- Cryptocurrency transaction reports (Coinbase, Binance, etc.)
For Other Income:
- Unemployment income (1099-G)
- Social Security benefits (SSA-1099)
- Alimony received (if applicable)
- Rental income and expenses
- Gambling or lottery winnings (W-2G)
📄 Deduction & Credit Documents
For Homeowners:
- Mortgage interest (Form 1098)
- Property tax statements
- Energy-efficient home upgrades
For Renters:
- Lease agreement or rent receipts (if applicable in your state)
For Families:
- Childcare provider’s name, EIN or SSN, and payment records
- Tuition (Form 1098-T) and education expenses
- Student loan interest (Form 1098-E)
- Adoption expenses (if applicable)
For Medical Expenses:
- Out-of-pocket medical, dental, and vision costs
- Health insurance premiums (especially if self-employed)
- HSA or FSA contributions (Form 5498-SA)
📋 Business & Self-Employed Deductions
If you’re a sole proprietor, LLC, or freelancer, gather:
- Profit and loss statement or bookkeeping summary
- Receipts for business expenses
- Mileage log (or odometer readings)
- Home office expenses (square footage, utilities, rent)
- Equipment and supply purchases
- Marketing and advertising receipts
- Software subscriptions
- Contractor payments (issue 1099s if required)
🧾 Credits & Adjustments
Bring documentation for:
- IRA or retirement contributions
- Charitable donations (cash and non-cash)
- State and local tax payments
- Estimated tax payments (dates and amounts)
- Educator expenses (for teachers)