When do tax forms arrive?

Most W-2s and 1099s arrive by the end of January; investment statements can run into March. Keep this list open and check items off as forms come in.

What do I need to keep from last year?

The full prior return — it carries over figures and speeds up any software. It’s the first item on the personal-details list.

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Tax Prep Checklist

The forms arrive one at a time between January and March. This tax prep checklist collects them as they come, so filing is a single sitting — reusable every year.

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Personal Details

Last year’s return
Social Security / tax ID numbers for everyone on the return
Bank account for direct deposit
Filing status decided
Dependents’ details
IP PIN if you have one

Income Forms

W-2s from every employer
1099s (contract, interest, dividends)
Investment sales statements
Retirement distributions
Unemployment or other benefits
Rental or side-business income records

Deductions & Credits

Mortgage interest statement
Property tax paid
Charitable donation receipts
Medical expenses over the threshold
Childcare provider details & amounts
Education expenses
Retirement & HSA contributions
Business expenses & mileage log

Filing

Choose software or a preparer
Book the appointment early
Estimated payments made this year
Review before submitting
Save a PDF of the filed return
Note refund tracking date
File the folder for next year

Save this list to reuse it forever

FAQ

When do tax forms arrive?: Most W-2s and 1099s arrive by the end of January; investment statements can run into March. Keep this list open and check items off as forms come in.
What do I need to keep from last year?: The full prior return — it carries over figures and speeds up any software. It’s the first item on the personal-details list.

Tax Prep Checklist

Personal Details

Income Forms

Deductions & Credits

Filing

FAQ

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