Novert Taxes

As the 2025 tax season approaches, many individuals are feeling the pressure to get everything in order. But with the right preparation, tax time doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you plan to file on your own or with a tax professional, having a complete and organized checklist will save you time, reduce errors, and possibly increase your refund. Let’s break down everything you need to gather before April 15, 2025.

📂 1. Personal Information

Start with the basics:

• Social Security Numbers (SSNs) or Taxpayer ID Numbers (TINs) for you, your spouse, and dependents

• Date of birth and full legal names

• Bank account information for direct deposit (routing and account numbers)

Pro Tip: Double-check this info for accuracy. A typo in an SSN or banking info can delay your refund or cause processing issues.

💼 2. Income Documents

Collect all the forms that reflect your income from various sources:

• W-2s: From all employers

• 1099s: For freelance or contract work, dividends, interest, or retirement distributions

  • 1099-NEC (non-employee compensation)

  • 1099-INT (interest)

  • 1099-DIV (dividends)

  • 1099-R (retirement)

• Unemployment income (1099-G)

• Social Security Benefits (SSA-1099)

• Alimony received (if applicable)

Bonus Tip: If you’re self-employed, include profit/loss statements and documentation of any estimated taxes you paid throughout the year.

📑 3. Deduction & Credit Documents

These can significantly reduce your taxable income or increase your refund:

• Mortgage interest statement (Form 1098)

• Property tax receipts

• Charitable donation receipts

• Student loan interest (Form 1098-E)

• Tuition statements (Form 1098-T)

• Medical and dental bills (if itemizing)

• Childcare expenses (including provider EIN or SSN)

• HSA/FSA contributions

Quick Insight: Even if you take the standard deduction, many credits—like the Child Tax Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit—still apply.

🏦 4. Investment & Savings Documents

• 1099-B: Capital gains/losses from selling stocks or assets

• 1099-SA: Distributions from HSAs

• Form 5498: IRA contributions

• Cryptocurrency transactions: If applicable, include gains/losses from digital assets

🧾 5. Last Year’s Tax Return (Optional but Helpful)

It’s helpful to have your prior-year return handy, especially if:

• You’re filing with new software or a different preparer

• You want to compare refund amounts or carryover deductions

• You claimed certain credits (like education or retirement saver’s credit)

✅ Final Pre-Filing Checklist

• Double-check all forms for accuracy

• Choose your filing method (e-file, paper, professional service)

• Review for missed deductions or credits

• Submit before the April 15 deadline—or file for an extension

📣 Conclusion: Prepare Today, Relax Tomorrow

Tax time doesn’t have to be a headache. With this checklist in hand, you’re not just staying organized—you’re taking control of your finances. The earlier you get started, the more time you have to resolve missing documents, find extra deductions, and file confidently.

Need help gathering documents or planning ahead? [Schedule a free consultation with our tax team today] and we’ll walk you through every step. 💼✨