What Do I Need for Tax Preparation?

You must supply receipts for itemized deductions.

A copy of last year's tax return and proper identification are essential when preparing this year's tax return. For this year's tax return, all sources of income except child support and tax-free government assistance must be claimed. Written statements or receipts must be provided for itemized deductions.

Proof of Income

Income statements include wage statements (W-2), self-employment income (1099-MISC), pension or retirement (1099-R), unemployment income (1099-G), social security income (SSA-1099), interest or dividend income (1099-INT/1099-DIV), canceled debt amount (1099-C), alimony income and rental income.

Proof of Deductions

Common deductions include real estate and personal property taxes paid, state or local taxes paid, estimated taxes paid, mortgage or home equity loan interest paid (1098), student loan interest paid (1098-E), medical and dental expenses, job-related expenses, dependent care expenses and charitable donations.

Identification

Photo identification (driver's license or state-issued identification card) and Social Security card are required for everyone filing taxes. Photocopies of these documents are not accepted. For dependents, Social Security numbers are required although photo ID is not.

References

• Jackson Hewitt: Prepare Your Taxes: What to Bring
• Liberty Tax: FAQ's: What Should I Bring
• IRS: Frequently Asked Tax Questions and Answers