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Tax Season Document Checklist

What to have ready before you (or your accountant) start your return.

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Income

All 1099s and W-2s received
Total sales/revenue report from your bookkeeping software
Records of any other business income

Expenses

Categorized expense report for the year
Receipts for purchases over $75
Mileage log if you deduct vehicle use
Home office measurements if you claim that deduction

Payroll & Contractors

Payroll tax filings (941s, state forms)
1099-NEC forms sent to contractors paid $600+

Prior Year & Admin

Last year's tax return for reference
Estimated tax payments made this year
EIN and business formation documents on hand

Frequently Asked Questions

What receipts do I actually need to keep?

IRS guidance generally expects receipts for purchases over $75, though keeping every receipt is safer if you have the space to store them. Digital copies count.

When are 1099-NEC forms due to contractors?

Generally January 31st for the prior tax year — file early enough that you have proof of mailing or delivery before the deadline.

What if I'm missing some of these documents?

Gather what you can and flag the gaps to your accountant early — most missing documents (like a duplicate 1099) can be requested again, but it takes time, so don't wait until the deadline to find out something is missing.

Is this checklist different in Canada?

Yes — see the Canada version of this checklist, which covers T4/T4A slips and CRA instalment payments instead of 1099s and quarterly estimated taxes.

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