Checklist: Preparing your income tax return

Use our checklist as a guide to help you gather necessary forms and receipts for preparing your income tax return. Choose those categories that apply to you, and make sure you have all the relevant documents on hand before getting started. Our checklist covers the main items you are likely to require; however, more detailed information or receipts may be necessary for some returns. Consult an accountant or financial advisor for advice on your particular tax situation.

Social Security numbers:

• Personal
• Spouse
• Dependents
• Child care provider
• Alimony recipient

Personal income:

• Employment income W-2 forms
• Unemployment income 1099-G forms
• Interest income 1099-INT & 1099-OID forms
• Dividend income 1099-DIV forms
• Brokerage transactions 1099-B forms
• Distributions from medical savings accounts 1099-MSA forms
• Retirement plan distribution 1099-R forms
• Social Security benefits SSA-1099 forms
• Alimony received
• Gambling and lottery winnings W-2G forms
• Jury duty pay records
• State and local income tax refunds 1099-G forms
• Other miscellaneous income
• Dependents
• Child care provider
• Alimony recipient

Self-employment income:

• Business income 1099-MISC forms or own records
• Partnership income K-1: 1065 forms
• S Corporation investment income K-1: 1120S forms
• Rental property income 1099-MISC forms or own record
• Business-related expenses
• Employment and business taxes paid

Homeowner information:

• Mortgage Interest 1098 forms
• Property sales proceeds 1099-S forms
• Real estate taxes paid
• Rent paid
• Moving expenses

Personal expenses:

• Charitable donations
• Alimony paid
• Adoption expenses
• Medical and dental expenses
• Child care expenses
• Expenses relating to employment or volunteer work
• Education tuition 1098-T form
• Student loan interest 1098-E form
• Investment expenses
• Expenses relating to job hunting or education
• Tax return preparation fees
• Wages paid to household employees
• Retirement plan contributions
• Federal, state & local income tax paid for current year
• Records for any other expenses that may be deductible

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