Updated 4 min readBy the Elite B Taxes team
Quick answer
Gather your ID numbers (SSN or ITIN) for everyone on the return, every income form (W-2, 1099s), deduction and credit records (1098 mortgage interest, 1098-T tuition, childcare and charity receipts), last year's return and bank details for direct deposit. If you have accounts or income outside the U.S., bring those statements too.
Key points
- Missing a single 1099 is one of the most common reasons for an IRS letter.
- Last year's return helps carry forward losses and credits.
- Foreign bank balances are needed for FBAR and Form 8938.
- Upload documents as they arrive so nothing gets lost.
Personal information
For you, your spouse and dependents:
- SSN or ITIN and dates of birth
- Prior-year federal and state returns
- Bank routing and account number for refunds
- Any IRS letters received during the year
Income documents
Collect every form you receive:
- W-2 from each employer
- 1099-NEC / 1099-MISC for contract or freelance work
- 1099-INT, 1099-DIV and 1099-B for interest, dividends and investment sales
- 1099-R for retirement distributions; SSA-1099 for Social Security
- Rental income and expenses
- Income from India or other countries (interest, rent, salary, capital gains)
Deductions and credits
Keep records for:
- 1098 mortgage interest and property tax
- 1098-T tuition and 1098-E student loan interest
- Childcare provider name, ID and amounts paid
- Charitable donation receipts
- 1095-A if you bought health insurance through the Marketplace
- HSA and retirement contributions
Foreign accounts and assets
If you're a U.S. tax resident with accounts abroad, list each account's institution, account number and highest balance during the year — you'll need them for the FBAR and possibly Form 8938.
This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice for your situation. Tax rules change — talk to a professional before acting.