What to Bring to Your Tax Appointment

At Rise Tax Pro, we want to make your tax filing experience as simple and stress-free as possible. To help us maximize your refund (or minimize how much you owe), it’s important that you gather the right documents. We’ve put together this detailed checklist to help you know exactly what you need to bring based on your situation. Once you have everything ready, you can securely upload your documents by clicking the "File Your Taxes" button at the bottom of the page.

Tax Consultant Appointment Scheduling ...

Personal Information
Let’s start with the basics. We’ll need Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for you, your spouse, and any dependents, a government-issued ID (like a Driver’s License or Passport), your bank account details (for direct deposit of any refund), and a copy of last year’s tax return, if you have it.

Income Documentation
Gather all forms of income you’ve received throughout the year:

  • W-2 Employees: Form W-2 from each employer.

  • Self-Employment (Freelancers, Contractors, Small Business Owners): Form 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC for contract work, Profit & Loss Statements, receipts for business-related expenses, mileage logs, and details of home office expenses (such as office square footage and utility bills).

  • Investment Income: Forms 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B (include cost basis), 1099-R for retirement income, and 1099-G for any unemployment benefits.

  • Rental Income: Records of rental income and expenses, including mortgage interest, repairs, and insurance.

Dependent Information
If you’re claiming dependents, you’ll need SSNs for each, along with the childcare provider’s name, address, SSN or EIN, and total amount paid for Child and Dependent Care Credit. For education-related deductions, gather Form 1098-T for tuition and receipts for books and supplies. Also, have proof of relationship and residency for dependents (like birth certificates or custody agreements).

Deductions and Credits
To get the most from your return, gather the following:

  • Medical and Dental Expenses: Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, health insurance premiums paid independently, long-term care insurance premiums, mileage for medical appointments, and costs of medical equipment like glasses or hearing aids.

  • Charitable Donations: Receipts for cash donations, fair market value receipts for non-cash items, and acknowledgment letters for donations over $250.

  • Child and Dependent Care Credit: Childcare provider’s name, address, SSN or EIN, and total paid (If your provider is an individual, they may need to report this income, and we’re happy to assist with their tax return).

  • Homeowner Deductions: Form 1098 for mortgage interest, property tax bills, and receipts for energy-efficient improvements.

  • Education Credits: Form 1098-T for tuition and receipts for school-related books and supplies.

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Proof of income (like W-2s or 1099s) and SSNs for dependents.

  • Marketplace Insurance Premium Tax Credit: Form 1095-A for health insurance purchased through the Marketplace.

Miscellaneous Deductions
Depending on your situation, you may need records for unreimbursed job expenses (like tools or union dues), investment-related expenses (advisory fees, etc.), gambling losses (up to winnings), tax payments made during the year, and any refunds from last year applied to this year’s taxes.

Real Estate & Property
For property owners, gather property tax bills, Form 1098 for mortgage interest, closing statements for recent purchases or sales, and rental income and expenses records, including repair costs and insurance.

Business Owners
If you’re a business owner, please include income statements, Profit & Loss reports, receipts for business expenses, mileage logs, payroll records, and inventory and depreciation schedules.

Retirement & Health Savings Accounts (HSA/FSA)
If you have retirement or health savings accounts, please provide Form 1099-SA for HSA distributions, Form 5498-SA for HSA contributions, IRA or 401(k) contribution records, and Form 8889 for HSA activity.

Upload Your Documents Securely
Once you’ve gathered everything, click the button below to securely upload your documents to our client portal. This will allow us to get started on your tax return.

Ready to Get Started?

With everything prepared, you’re one step closer to a smooth and stress-free tax filing experience. At Rise Tax Pro, we’re here to make sure you get the most out of your return while navigating all the details with ease. Simply click the button above to securely upload your documents, and we’ll take it from there.

If you have questions at any stage, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to support you with any clarifications, additional forms, or guidance you may need. Let’s get started on your tax return today and ensure every detail is handled accurately and confidently!

File Your Taxes Now
You can count on us for professional, timely, and reliable tax and accounting services. If you’re ready to get started, just fill out this form and we’ll be in touch.