Most delayed returns share one cause: a missing document. Gathering everything before you start is the single fastest way to a finished, accurate return.
Start with identity
You will need photo ID, Social Security numbers (or ITINs) for everyone on the return, and dates of birth. New clients should also bring their prior-year return — it carries forward information that is easy to miss.
Then every income form
W-2s from every employer. 1099-NEC or 1099-K for contract work. 1099-INT, 1099-DIV and 1099-B for bank and investment income. 1099-R for retirement distributions, SSA-1099 for Social Security, and K-1s if you are a partner or S-corp shareholder.
A useful rule: if a form was mailed to you or appeared in your account in January or February, your preparer probably needs it.
Finally, deduction and credit records
Childcare provider details, 1098-T education forms, mortgage interest (1098), property taxes, charitable contributions, business and rental expenses, and any estimated tax payments you made during the year.
When in doubt, include it. A good preparer would rather set aside an irrelevant document than discover a missing one after filing.
Your situation
General information only — your return may differ. If this article sounds like your situation, let's look at it properly.
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