Tax Prep Checklist: What Documents Do You Need to File Taxes in 2026?

By Vivian London, London's Tax Services | 06/16/2026

Gathering the right paperwork before you file saves time, money, and stress, and it helps you avoid missing deductions. Use this checklist to collect everything your tax preparer needs. Print it, tick off each item, and you will be ready for a smooth, accurate return.

Personal information

• Social Security numbers or ITINs for you, your spouse, and dependents
• Dates of birth for everyone on the return
• Last year's tax return (federal and state)
• Bank account and routing number for direct deposit

Income documents

• W-2 forms from all employers
• 1099 forms (1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, 1099-K) for freelance, contract, or gig income
• 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, and 1099-B for interest, dividends, and investment sales
• 1099-R for retirement or pension distributions
• SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits
• Records of rental income
• Records of any other income (gambling, prizes, jury duty)

Self-employed and small business owners

• Profit and loss statement or income and expense records
• Mileage log and vehicle expenses
• Home office square footage and related costs
• Receipts for equipment, supplies, and software
• 1099s you issued to contractors
• Estimated tax payments made during the year

Deductions and credits

• Mortgage interest statement (1098)
• Property tax and state tax records
• Charitable donation receipts
• Medical and dental expense records
• Childcare costs and provider tax ID
• Tuition and student loan interest (1098-T, 1098-E)
• Retirement contributions (IRA, SEP, 401k)

One more thing most people forget

Having your documents in order is step one. The bigger opportunity is making sure you are using every legal strategy to lower your bill. That is the difference between simply filing and actually planning. When you bring your paperwork to us, we do not just file it. We look for savings you may be missing.

Have your documents ready? Book a free consultation. Call (646) 917-7714. We serve individuals and small businesses across Westchester, the Bronx, and Rockland County, NY.