When you come for your appointment, you should bring certain documents that prove your income, deductions/credits, dependents, etc. These documents include:
- Valid driver’s license or photo identification (self & spouse, if applicable)
- Social Security cards for all persons listed on the return (including dependents)
- Dates of birth for all persons listed on the return
- All income statements: Forms W-2 and 1099, Social Security, Unemployment, or other benefits statements, records of income and expenses from a business you own and any documents showing taxes withheld. Important note: If you earned money for which you did not receive a Form W-2 or 1099, bring whatever proof of income you have, for example receipts, paid invoices, time sheets, bank deposit records, photocopies of checks, personal notes or journals, etc. Also be prepared to answer questions relating to how you earned this income so that it can be properly reported as either ‘wages’ or ‘self-employment income’
- Dependent childcare information (such as expenses for daycare, etc.): payee’s name, address and SSN or tax ID number
- If you want to use direct deposit (for a refund) or direct debit (if you owe money): proof of account at financial institution (i.e. cancelled/ voided check or bank statement)
- Prior year tax return (if available)
- Any other pertinent documents or papers
(If you are not sure whether certain documents will be needed or not, the safest thing is to bring them with you!)
Your Return Preparer is required to ask you questions to determine your correct income, expenses, deductions, and credits. He or she has your best interests in mind and wants to help you avoid penalties, interest, or additional taxes that could result from future IRS contacts.
Remember, you are ultimately responsible for what is on your tax return. Being ready, with the right documents to prepare your return will save you time and help avoid errors.
The National Society of Accountants has made their annual “Income Tax Planner” available to the public. To view it and print a free copy, click here. [Two things to keep in mind about the organizer: first, "T / S" stands for "Taxpayer" (you) and "Spouse" (your spouse if you are married and filing a joint return); and second, while it looks like an awful lot of work, most will find that much of the information asked for doesn't apply to them.]
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