![It is time for Tax Prep! [Updated 2020]](https://scarletoakfs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/965x384-New-Records-and-Changes_Page_16-scaled.jpg)
If you haven’t done so already, it’s time to get ready to file your taxes. Whether you use a tax professional or prepare your taxes yourself, the first step is to get organized and a tax preparation checklist can help you do that. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Collect your income records: Employers/companies send out W-2s and 1099s by the end of January. Review these documents carefully as soon as you receive them; if you find a discrepancy, you have plenty of time to get a corrected document.
Collect copies of year-end bank, brokerage, and investment account statements: These may contain needed cost-basis, transaction type, gain/loss information. They can also serve as proof of IRA contributions.
Organize and validate your deductible expenses and eligible tax credits (some may include):
- Work-related receipts
- Receipts/payment records for charitable donations
- Payment records of eligible medical co-payments
- Education costs/student loan interest
- Mortgage interest statement
- Homebuyer tax credit
Check out one-time benefits that might apply: Investments in certain energy-efficient products (such as water heaters, central air conditioners, new windows and doors, and insulation) could make you eligible for tax credits this year. If you installed a solar energy system (or other type of renewable energy system) you may be eligible for a tax credit. Details about these types of tax credits are available at: www.energysavers.gov.
Locate last year’s tax return: You may need to reference important information for this year’s return.
I hope these tips help you with creating your own personal tax-prep checklist. Please consult a tax professional for tax-related advice. If you you need assistance with tax information on your accounts, please check out our post here.
