Everything you'll want to gather before your first appointment — organized by category, in plain English. Don't worry about being exhaustive; we can still get started and follow up on anything missing.
For you, your spouse, and any dependents. Having these on hand makes the rest of the process much faster.
SSN or ITIN for yourself, your spouse, and all dependents.
Driver's license or passport for you and your spouse.
For yourself, your spouse, and all dependents.
Routing and account number for direct deposit of any refund.
Your most recent federal and state returns help us get started quickly.
All income received during the tax year. Not everything below will apply — bring what you have.
From every employer you worked for during the year.
Freelance, contract, or self-employment income.
Interest and dividend income from banks or brokerages.
Stock, mutual fund, or cryptocurrency sales — include cost basis information.
Distributions from IRAs, 401(k)s, pensions, or annuities.
If you received Social Security benefits during the year.
Unemployment compensation or prior-year state tax refund.
Total rent received and all rental expenses for the year.
From partnerships, S-corporations, trusts, or estates you have an interest in.
Documentation that lowers your tax liability — mortgage interest, charitable giving, tuition, medical, and more.
From your lender — includes mortgage interest and property tax paid through escrow.
Annual real estate tax bills if not included in your 1098.
Cash donations and receipts for non-cash donations over $250.
Out-of-pocket costs not covered by insurance — only relevant if they exceed 7.5% of income.
Interest paid on qualified student loans.
From colleges or universities for education credits.
Provider name, address, and EIN/SSN — plus total amount paid.
Records of contributions made to traditional or Roth IRAs.
Form 1095-A (if marketplace plan) and Form 1099-SA (HSA distributions).
If you use your car for business, medical, or charitable purposes.
If you own a business, freelance, or are otherwise self-employed. QuickBooks clients — we already have most of this.
Annual income and expense summary for your business.
Total revenue received — QuickBooks reports, bank statements, or sales records.
Receipts and records for all deductible business expenses.
Square footage of home and office space if you have a dedicated home office.
Receipts for equipment or property purchased for the business this year.
Dates and amounts of any quarterly estimated payments made to the IRS or state.
Any of these can meaningfully affect your return. If something happened this year, mention it — even if you're not sure it matters.
Marriage certificate or divorce decree — filing status changes.
New dependent's name, SSN, and date of birth.
HUD-1 / closing disclosure from the sale or purchase.
Let us know the entity type and date of formation or closure.
Details on inherited assets — especially investments or real estate.
Gifts over $18,000 per person may require a gift tax return.
Bring any letters or notices from the IRS or state tax agencies.
Don't worry if you're missing something. We can always follow up — just bring what you have, and we'll take it from there.— Chris DeHoff, CPA
Your first conversation is free and without obligation. We'll review your situation, answer questions, and give you a clear sense of next steps.