Harbor resources
Tax preparation checklist A clear starting point for gathering the records commonly needed to prepare an accurate return. Your exact list may vary based on your filing situation, business activity, investments, and state filings.
← All resourcesBefore you begin Gather documents in one secure place and wait for corrected forms when you know one is coming. Complete records help reduce follow-up questions and avoid preventable delays.
What to gather
Use the sections that apply to you. Not every item will apply to every client. If you are unsure whether something matters, include it or note it for your consultation.
Personal and filing information Photo identification for each taxpayer Social Security numbers and dates of birth for taxpayers and dependents Current address, phone number, and preferred email Prior-year federal and state tax returns, if Harbor did not prepare them Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit or payment Income documents Forms W-2 and 1099, including interest, dividends, retirement, and contract income Forms K-1 from partnerships, S corporations, estates, or trusts Brokerage statements and records of digital-asset transactions Social Security, unemployment, alimony, or other income documentation Records of income received without a tax form Deductions and tax credits Mortgage interest, property tax, and charitable contribution records Medical expenses when they may be significant enough to itemize Childcare provider information and amounts paid Education tuition statements, student-loan interest, and scholarship details Health Savings Account and marketplace health-insurance forms Energy-efficiency or clean-vehicle purchase documentation Business and self-employment Year-end profit and loss statement and balance sheet Business bank and credit-card statements supporting the books Payroll reports, contractor payments, and Forms 1099 filed Vehicle mileage, home-office, equipment, and other business expense records Asset purchases, sales, loans, owner contributions, and distributions Estimated tax payments made during the year Real estate and rental activity Rental income and categorized property expenses Closing statements for property purchases, sales, or refinances Property-management, platform, and occupancy-tax reports Records of improvements, furnishings, and equipment placed in service Business-use days, personal-use days, and owner stays for short-term rentals Final review before sending Confirm that every expected tax form has arrived Label documents clearly and avoid sending duplicate copies Note major life, business, ownership, or residency changes List any notices received from the IRS or a state tax authority Write down questions and planning topics you want Harbor to address Need a tailored list?
Let's make tax preparation feel manageable. Harbor can help you identify what applies to your situation and build a practical path from document gathering to filing and year-round planning.
Schedule a consultation → This checklist is general information and is not a substitute for advice based on your specific facts and circumstances.
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