Start with last year and what changed
Your prior-year return can help identify recurring forms and filing items. Make a short list of moves, marriage or divorce, a new child, retirement, changes in work, business activity, property sales and other significant changes. Think about what changed during the year, not just which tax forms arrived.
Income documents to look for
Common examples include W-2s, 1099s for interest, dividends, retirement payments or nonemployee compensation, and records of self-employment or rental income. If you received income but did not get a form, do not assume it can be ignored. Think about any work performed in multiple states.
Payments and potentially relevant expenses
Depending on your situation, you may need records for estimated tax payments, mortgage interest, property taxes, charitable gifts, education costs, eligible retirement contributions or business expenses. Keep documentation rather than relying on rounded estimates.
Review account and identity details securely
Before filing, you may need to confirm the people included on a return, addresses and relevant banking instructions. Do not send identifying information, Social Security numbers, bank details or tax documents through our public inquiry form. Once an engagement is accepted, we will arrange appropriate secure exchange.
Look ahead, not only backward
If this year included an unusually large gain, job change, increased side income or retirement decision, it may be worth discussing planning for next year rather than simply repeating your past approach.
A short list of changes, a complete collection of received forms and records of estimated payments make a useful starting point. A preparer will still need to ask questions specific to your situation.
Educational information only. Specific tax treatment, filing requirements and service availability depend on your facts and applicable law.