What Documents Do I Need to File My Taxes?
Here's Your Tax Checklist for the 2024/2025 Season
Tax season has a sneaky way of rolling around faster than we expect every year. But don't worry, we're here to help you feel prepared. Whether it's your first time filing or you just want to make sure you're not forgetting anything, this guide is for you.
We've even put together a printable tax checklist to make your prep even easier.
- Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN
- Bank account info for direct deposit (routing and account numbers)
- Last year's AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) - You'll find this on Line 11 of your 1040, or you can look it up in your IRS transcripts. www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
- Self-Select PIN - This is the 5-digit number you chose to e-sign your return last year.
- IP PIN (only if the IRS assigned you one - it's a special identity protection PIN)
Income Forms to Keep an Eye Out For
No matter how you earn your money whether it be a 9-to-5 job, through freelance gigs, or side hustles, you'll need to gather the right forms to report it. These usually arrive in January or early February.
Here's what to watch for:
- W-2 (for traditional employment)
- 1099 forms - there are a few types depending on your work
- SSA-1099 (if you receive Social Security benefits)
- 1095-A (if you bought health insurance through the Marketplace)
Heads up: Anyone who paid you is required to send you a copy of the tax forms they submitted to the IRS. These usually show up by mail, email, or payroll portal.
Got Deductions or Credits? Grab These Docs
To claim deductions or tax credits, you'll want to hang on to documents that show your expenses. These might include:
- Childcare or dependent care costs
- Mortgage interest or property taxes (for itemized deductions)
- Charitable donation receipts (for itemized deductions)
- Contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Healthcare expenses (especially if they're high - special rules apply)
- Retirement account contributions
- Education expenses (books, tuition, and supplies for students or teachers)
Side Hustle or Self-Employed? Here's What You'll Need
If you're running a small business, freelancing, or picking up side jobs, make sure to collect:
- 1099-K, 1099-NEC, or 1099-MISC forms (from apps, clients, platforms)
- Bank statements or payment processor reports (like from PayPal, Venmo, etc.)
- Checks or payment records
- Receipts for expenses (travel, office supplies, gifts, etc.)
- Mileage logs if you drive for work
- Records of estimated tax payments
- Any other business-related income or expense documents
Tip from the Tax Desk:
If you're self-employed, organizing your receipts for expenses will save you a lot of time when it its time to file. Taking a little time now to get organized will save you stress later.
Want a printable version of this checklist to keep handy? Download it here!
And if you're ever in doubt, reach out to a trusted tax pro.
Q1: What documents do I need to file my taxes for 2024/2025?
A: You'll need personal ID (like your SSN), income forms (W-2s, 1099s), last year's AGI, and receipts for any deductions or credits.
Q2: When should I expect to receive tax documents like W-2 or 1099?
A: These usually arrive by late January or early February. If you haven't received them, reach out to your employer.
Q3: What if I'm self-employed or have a side hustle?
A: You'll need 1099s, income logs, receipts, mileage records, and proof of any business-related expenses.
Q4: How do I know if I can itemize deductions?
A: If your total deductions (like mortgage interest or donations) exceed the standard deduction, itemizing may save you more.
Q5: What is an IP PIN and do I need one?
A: An IP PIN is a 6-digit identity protection number the IRS assigns to prevent tax fraud. Only use one if the IRS issued it to you.
