Resources
Short resources about documents, income types, and common tax situations. This is general information, not individual advice.
What documents are needed for a tax return
Careful preparation requires more than income forms. Credits, dependents, mileage, business expenses, foreign income, and foreign accounts may require supporting documents.
W-2, 1099, and Schedule C: what is the difference?
These forms may look similar to a client, but they represent different types of income and require different tax treatment.
Foreign income outside the U.S.
If you had income outside the United States during the year, it is better to discuss it before filing, even if the money was not transferred to the U.S.
FBAR / FinCEN: foreign accounts
If you have bank, investment, or other financial accounts outside the United States, it is better to discuss them before filing.
Children, dependents, and tax credits: documents that may be needed
If children, dependents, or credits are claimed, the facts of the year and supporting records should be reviewed before filing.
Mileage log and business use of a car
If a vehicle is used for work or business, records should be kept during the year. Rough mileage and expense estimates are often not enough.
What to do if you receive an IRS letter
An IRS letter does not always mean something is wrong, but it should not be ignored. First, identify what is being requested and what deadline applies.
Form 1095-A and Marketplace health insurance
If you had health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace during the year, Form 1095-A and Form 8962 may be an important part of your tax return.
Estimated tax payments during the year
If income is not subject to withholding, such as 1099 / self-employed income, rent, interest, or dividends, estimated tax payments may need to be discussed.
Prior-year returns and amended returns
Sometimes a prior-year return needs to be filed, or a return that was already filed needs to be corrected. These are different situations and require different records.