2025 Tax Season Checklist

Tax season can be stressful, but staying organized and prepared can make the filing process much smoother. Whether you’re filing your own taxes or working with a professional, this comprehensive checklist will help ensure you have everything needed to file accurately and maximize your refund.

1. Gather Your Personal Information
   • Social Security numbers (SSNs) or taxpayer identification numbers (TINs) for yourself, your spouse, and dependents
   • Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of your refund
   • Last year’s tax return for reference
2. Collect Income Documents
   • Form W-2 from your employer(s)
   • 1099 forms for freelance, contract, or gig work (1099-NEC, 1099-K, 1099-MISC, etc.)
   • 1099-INT or 1099-DIV for interest and dividend income
   • 1099-B for stock sales or investment income
   • K-1 forms for partnership or S-corp distributions
   • Unemployment income (1099-G)
   • Social Security benefits (SSA-1099)
3. Track Deductible Expenses
   • Mortgage interest statement (Form 1098)
   • Property tax payments
   • Student loan interest (Form 1098-E)
   • Medical and dental expenses (if itemizing deductions)
   • Charitable donations (cash and non-cash contributions)
   • State and local taxes paid
   • Investment or business expenses
4. Identify Tax Credits You Qualify For
   • Child Tax Credit (CTC)
   • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
   • American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning Credit (education expenses)
   • Saver’s Credit for retirement contributions
   • Energy efficiency credits (solar panels, home improvements, etc.)
5. Gather Business or Self-Employment Records (If Applicable)
   • Income and expense records
   • Receipts for business expenses
   • Mileage logs for business-related driving
   • Home office deduction details
   • Estimated tax payments made throughout the year
6. Review Retirement Contributions and Withdrawals
   • IRA or 401(k) contributions
   • 401(k) or IRA withdrawals (Form 1099-R)
   • Required minimum distributions (RMDs) for retirees
7. Verify Health Insurance Information
   • Form 1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C (if applicable)
   • Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions and withdrawals (Form 5498-SA, 1099-SA)
8. Plan for Estimated or Additional Tax Payments
   • If you are self-employed or have income without withholding, ensure you have made quarterly estimated tax payments
   • Check for any underpayment penalties
9. Decide How You Will File
   • DIY tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, etc.)
   • Hire a tax professional or CPA
   • Free tax filing options (IRS Free File for qualifying taxpayers)
10. Double-Check for Accuracy Before Filing
    • Review all numbers, deductions, and credits
    • Ensure correct Social Security numbers and bank details
    • Confirm signatures (if filing jointly)
    • File electronically for a faster refund

By following this checklist, you can reduce stress, minimize errors, and increase your chances of getting the best possible refund. Start gathering your documents early, and you will l be ready to file with confidence!

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