These are the essential documents and forms to gather before filing your 2025 tax return (for income received in 2024). Whether you file yourself or use a pro, staying organized ensures accuracy and maximizes deductions.
1. 🧾 Personal & ID Information
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID) for you—and your spouse if filing jointly. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Social Security numbers or ITINs for yourself, spouse, and any dependents. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Last year’s federal and state tax returns—for reference and carryovers. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
2. 📥 Income Documents
- W-2 forms—if you worked in 2024. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- 1099-R for pensions, IRAs, annuities, RMDs. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- SSA‑1099 for Social Security benefits. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B for interest, dividends, and sales. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- 1099-G if you received unemployment or state/local tax refunds. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Any 1099-NEC/1099-K for self-employment or gig income. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
3. 💰 Federal & State Payments Made
- Records of quarterly estimated tax payments (Form 1040-ES vouchers or IRS records). :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Total federal/state tax withheld from all sources. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
4. 🩺 Deductions & Credits
- Medical, dental, Medicare, and long-term care insurance premiums; receipts and EOBs. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Home mortgage interest (Form 1098) and property tax statements. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Charitable contribution receipts. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- IRA/retirement account contribution slips. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Documentation for other credits: education, elderly/disabled, energy improvements. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
5. 📄 Retirement‑Related Forms
- RMD documentation, including account statements showing distribution and withholding. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Certification of disability or date of retirement for credits or filing status. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
6. 📝 Form 1040‑SR (for Age 65+)
Special simplified version of Form 1040 with larger print, including standard deduction tables. Gather Schedules 1–3 if applicable. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
7. 🖥 Tax Prep Support Materials
- IRS Publication 554 (Tax Guide for Seniors)—highlights age‑specific rules. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- IRS account login credentials or transcripts (via IRS Online Account). :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
8. 🧾 Additional Supporting Documents
- Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit/refund. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
- IRS or state correspondence, including notices. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
- Proof of estimated tax or withholding adjustments made during the year. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
Quick Summary Table
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Personal Info | ID, SSNs, last year’s returns |
| Income | W‑2, 1099‑R, SSA‑1099, 1099‑INT/DIV/B |
| Payments | Withholding, estimated tax vouchers |
| Deductions & Credits | Medical, mortgage, charitable receipts |
| Retirement Info | RMD docs, IRA contributions |
| Tax Filing Forms | 1040‑SR, schedules, Pub 554 |
✅ Final Checklist Tips
- Organize documents in labeled folders (e.g. “Income”, “Medical Deductibles”).
- Check completeness against this list before starting filing.
- Use VITA/TCE/AARP Tax‑Aide if you need free help. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
- Review withholding and estimated payments mid‑year to avoid surprises.
