Tax season is far less stressful when you gather everything in one pass. This checklist lists every document to collect, deduction to consider, and deadline to meet, so you move from January W-2s to the filing deadline without scrambling.
What it covers
- Income documents: W-2s, 1099s, interest and investment statements
- Deduction records: mortgage interest, charitable gifts, medical and education costs
- Credits to check, such as those for dependents and education
- Key deadlines, including the April filing date and the October extension
How to use it
- Make a copy from the link below.
- Create one folder and drop documents in as they arrive in January and February.
- Tick off each item so you know when you have everything.
- File or hand off to your preparer once the list is complete.
A note on accuracy
Tax situations vary and rules change year to year, so use this as an organizer rather than tax advice. If your return is complex, gathering everything first still saves your preparer time and saves you money.