Tax season can be a stressful time, but it doesn’t have to be. When it’s time to file your income tax returns, proper preparation can help alleviate the anxiety that tends to crop up during this time of year. If you’re meeting a tax accounting specialist to prepare your tax returns, there are several key documents you should bring with you. Here are the three most important types.

3 Documents to Bring to Your Tax Prep Meeting

1. Income & Earnings

Be sure to bring any documents that show your income and earnings. W-2s and 1099s are probably the first that come to mind, but don’t forget to collect any bank statement interest forms, retirement accounts or Social Security benefits. If you’re not sure which documents to bring, your tax accounting professional can provide you with a list.

2. Social Security Card

Always bring your Social Security card and those of your spouse and dependents to your tax prep meeting. These will help confirm everyone’s identities so that the proper numbers are placed on your state and federal income tax returns. If your name has changed since your last tax filing due to marriage or divorce, be sure to obtain a new Social Security card with your current name.

3. Deduction Documents

Deductions reduce the amount of taxes you’re required to pay, so they’re understandably one of the few aspects of tax returns that people are eager to approach. However, it’s important that you’re able to back up each deduction you claim with corresponding documentation. This paperwork is also critical in case the IRS selects you for an audit.

Deductions run the gamut from charitable donations and educational expenses to medical bills and mortgage interest. Your tax accounting professional can help you get your deduction documentation in order, and they can also recommend any additional deductions you may qualify for.

Be ready for tax prep season by bringing the necessary documents to your tax accounting session. The office of Linda M. Shiraiwa CPA, PS Inc. in Gig Harbor, WA continues to provide individuals and business owners with personalized and professional tax return services. Linda’s extensive experience includes helping small businesses, non-profits, and corporations. To schedule an appointment, call (253) 858-6030. Visit her website for information about her complete suite of services, including payroll and bookkeeping.