Before filing, you must gather a complete package confirming your Income, Deductions, and Credits. Your Filing Status and eligible benefits directly impact your liability to the IRS.
1. Documents Confirming Your Income
You must confirm the exact income the IRS already has on file. Anyone who paid you over $600 must provide a form.
| Form | Type of Income |
| W-2 | Wages and withheld taxes. Provide one from every employer. |
| 1099-NEC | Independent contractor/Sole proprietor income. |
| 1099-MISC | Rent, prizes, royalties, or fishing boat proceeds. |
| 1099-DIV / INT | Dividend and Interest income. |
| 1099-G | Government payments (Unemployment, etc.). |
| 1099-R | Retirement plan distributions ($10 or more). |
| 1099-C | Cancelled or forgiven debt. |
| SSA-1099 | Social Security income. |
| RRB-1099 | Railroad Retirement benefits. |
| W-2G | Gambling winnings (based on game type and odds). |
2. Proof of Deductions (Schedule A)
To claim deductions, you must prove specific qualified expenses. While the Standard Deduction is easier, Schedule A allows you to itemize for potentially higher savings.
- Retirement Contributions: Record all contributions to qualified plans.
- Adjustments to Income: See Schedule 1 for a full list of adjustments.
3. Claiming Tax Credits (Form 1098)
Credits reduce your tax bill directly. Often, you need Form 1098 to claim them:
- Form 1098: Mortgage interest paid on a home loan.
- Form 1098-E: Interest paid on student loans.
- Common 2025 Credits: Adoption, Education, Child & Dependent Care, Credit for the Elderly/Disabled, Earned Income Tax Credit, and the Saver’s Credit.
4. Special Checklist for Homeowners
If you purchased a home or made improvements, you must provide:
- Closing cost documents.
- Mortgage statements.
- Invoices/receipts for energy-efficient home improvements.
- Property tax statements.
What to Bring to Your CPA
If you are working with a tax professional, please have the following ready to ensure an efficient and accurate filing:
- Identity Verification: Social Security numbers (SSNs) or ITINs for you, your spouse, and all dependents.
- Banking Information: Routing and account numbers for direct deposit of your refund.
- Last Year’s Return: Helpful for tracking carryover credits and consistent data.
- Major Life Changes: Documents related to home purchases, business startups, or changes in dependents.
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