What to Bring to a Tax Appointment (Tax Checklist)

Be Prepared for Your Tax Appointment

Bringing the right documents to your tax appointment ensures a smooth filing process and helps maximize deductions. Use this tax documents checklist to make sure you have everything you need when meeting with your tax preparer.

Here is a printable version of the Tax Appointment Checklist. 

For your convenience, download and print the tax appointment checklist to make sure you have all the necessary documents ready for your appointment. 

 

Personal Identification and Basic Information

  • Valid ID – Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  • Social Security Numbers (SSN) – Have Social Security cards or ITIN letters for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents.
  • Bank Account Details – Provide your bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit or electronic payment of taxes.

Income Documentation

Your tax preparer needs to see records of all income sources, including employment, self-employment, and investments.

  • Employment Income – W-2 forms from all employers.
  • Self-Employment and Freelance Income – 1099-NEC or 1099-K forms, plus documentation of expenses and deductions.
  • Investment and Interest Income – 1099-INT (interest earned), 1099-DIV (dividends), and 1099-B (stock sales and capital gains).
  • Retirement and Social Security Income – SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits and 1099-R for pension and retirement account withdrawals.
  • Other Income Sources – Rental income, alimony received, gambling winnings (Form W-2G), or any other sources of income.

Tax Deductions and Credits Documentation

Gather records of expenses that may qualify for deductions or tax credits. Below are common deductible expenses to consider bringing documentation for:

  • Medical and Dental Expenses – Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, prescriptions, insurance premiums, hospital stays, and long-term care services.
  • Education Expenses – Form 1098-T for tuition payments, Form 1098-E for student loan interest, records of scholarships or fellowships received, and receipts for school-related expenses.
  • Mortgage Interest and Property Taxes – Form 1098 from your lender, property tax statements, and receipts for energy-efficient home improvements.
  • Charitable Donations – Acknowledgment letters or receipts for cash and non-cash contributions, mileage driven for charitable purposes, and documentation of volunteer-related expenses.
  • Business Expenses – Records of office supplies, travel, advertising, home office deductions, internet and phone expenses, equipment purchases, and business-use vehicle expenses.
  • Childcare Expenses – Fees paid to daycare centers, babysitters, after-school programs, or summer camps, along with the provider’s name, address, and tax identification number (TIN).
  • State and Local Taxes Paid – Records of state and local income taxes, real estate taxes, personal property taxes, and vehicle registration fees.
  • Investment and Retirement Contributions – Forms 5498-SA for Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions, Form 5498 for IRA contributions, and records of 401(k) or pension contributions.
  • Casualty and Theft Losses – Documentation of damages related to a federally declared disaster, insurance reimbursements, and out-of-pocket repair costs.

Gather records of expenses that may qualify for deductions or tax credits.

  • Medical and Dental Expenses – Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, prescriptions, and insurance premiums.
  • Education Expenses – Form 1098-T for tuition payments and Form 1098-E for student loan interest.
  • Mortgage Interest and Property Taxes – Form 1098 from your lender and property tax statements.
  • Charitable Donations – Acknowledgment letters or receipts for contributions to tax-exempt organizations.
  • Business Expenses – Records of office supplies, travel, home office deductions, and any other business-related costs.

Health Insurance Information

Proof of health insurance coverage is required for tax filing purposes.

  • Form 1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C – Depending on your insurance provider.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) Contributions – Form 5498-SA and receipts for qualified medical expenses.
  • Marketplace Exemptions – If applicable, bring your exemption certificate from the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Dependent and Family Information

  • Childcare Expenses – Provider’s name, address, and tax identification number (TIN), along with payment records.
  • Alimony Payments – If applicable, include documentation of payments made, along with the recipient’s SSN.
  • Adoption Expenses – Receipts and relevant legal documentation for any qualified adoption expenses.

Prior Year Tax Returns

Bringing previous tax returns can help identify potential deductions and carryovers.

  • Copies of Your Last Two Tax Returns – These help your preparer compare past returns and spot trends in deductions and income changes.
  • Carryover Documents – If applicable, bring information on capital losses, net operating losses, or other tax carryovers.

Miscellaneous Tax Documents

  • Estimated Tax Payments – Records of any quarterly estimated tax payments made during the year.
  • Foreign Bank Account Information – If applicable, details of foreign accounts for IRS compliance.
  • Identity Protection PIN – If the IRS has issued you a PIN for identity protection, be sure to bring it.

Ensuring a Smooth Tax Filing Process

Having the right tax documents ensures an efficient filing process and helps you maximize deductions. If you’re unsure whether a document is necessary, it’s best to bring it with you. For more information on tax filing requirements, visit the IRS website. Need help preparing your taxes? Contact WFP Tax Partners to schedule your appointment today.