Checklists · January 15, 2026 · 4 min read
What to Bring to Your Tax Appointment — Checklist
The exact documents I ask every client to bring (or upload). Print it, check it off, and your appointment runs 30 minutes shorter.
Most appointments run long for one reason: missing documents. Bring or upload everything below and we'll be done faster — and your return will be more accurate.
Identification
- Driver's license or state ID for you and your spouse
- Social Security cards (or ITIN letters) for everyone on the return
- Last year's tax return (if you're a new client)
Income documents
- W-2s from every employer
- 1099-NEC / 1099-MISC for contract work
- 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B for interest, dividends, brokerage activity
- 1099-R for retirement distributions
- 1099-G for unemployment or state refunds
- SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits
- K-1s from partnerships, S-Corps, or trusts
Deductions & credits
- Mortgage interest (1098) and property tax statements
- Childcare provider info: name, address, EIN, amount paid
- Form 1098-T for tuition, plus receipts for books/supplies
- Charitable donation receipts (cash and non-cash)
- Medical expenses if they're substantial
- IRA / HSA contribution records
If you're self-employed
- Income summary (totals or P&L)
- Expense totals by category — mileage, supplies, software, phone, etc.
- 1099-K from payment processors (Stripe, PayPal, Square)
- Home office square footage if you claim it