How To Prepare Your Tax Returns, Meet Your Tax Preparer
Mark Steber, chief tax officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, urges taxpayers to consider filing early. The following are some of his helpful tips as you prepare your tax returns or get ready to meet with your tax preparer.
How can taxpayers get started?
Start planning now. The IRS starts to accept e-filed returns this Friday, January 15, and all Form W-2’s are required to be mailed by January 31, so now is the right time to start gathering all tax-related documents and preparing to file. Many taxpayers can also electronically download their W-2’s now – with no need to wait – so check with your tax preparer to see if this is an option.
What tax documents are needed for filing a tax return:
One easy resource for pulling items together can be found on the Jackson Hewitt Web site at www.jacksonhewitt.com. Click on the ‘Get Your Taxes Done’ tab and you can find the ‘What to Bring Checklist’ that notes all of the documents needed to prepare and file a tax return, such as:
- Form W-2’s for any jobs worked
- Copy of last year’s return
- Medical and dental expenses
- Cash and non-cash charitable donations
- A valid driver’s license
- Social Security numbers and dates of birth for all dependents
Remember that planning for tax season is a year-round job. Designating one place – a drawer, or even a shoe box – to file relevant tax documents can save time and help you stay organized when it comes time to meet with your tax preparer.
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