Tax Preparation Checklist

A Social Security or tax ID number for everyone included on your tax return - You need your own number, but don't forget your spouse and dependent's (where applicable) as well. If someone doesn't have a Social Security number, you'll need their TIN instead.

Date of birth for everyone on your return.

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement - Your W-2 shows how much you earned and how much was withheld for taxes. Your employer has until February to send you your form. If you haven't received yours, go ahead and request it.

Bank or financial institution statements - Did you make contributions to an IRA? You'll need a Form 5498. Are you paying down student loan debt? Be sure to grab your Form 1098-E. Did you take out a home mortgage? Be sure to have your Form 1098 Mortgage Interest Statement.

Last year's state refund amount - If you itemize your deductions, then your state refund is considered income for tax purposes.

Other miscellaneous income records - This could include award money, gambling winnings, lottery pay-outs, etc.

Business expense records - These could be receipts, credit card statements, records of checks you've written, etc.

Quarterly estimated tax payment receipts - If you make installments to your tax bill during the year, the IRS (and your state) should send you a record of what you paid - similar to a receipt.

Mileage records - In order to get a deduction for your travel, you'll need to know how many miles you drove for work purposes.

Home office expenses - Taking the home office deduction? You'll need to know how big your space is in square feet. If you decide to use the actual expense method, you'll also need a record of your home-related expenses, like utilities and mortgage (or rent).