Your 1040 Tax-Prep Checklist
Filing an individual tax return? Answer a few quick questions and we'll build a personalized list of exactly which documents to gather - and which schedules your return will likely include. It takes about a minute, stays private in your browser, and nothing is submitted or stored.
Build my checklistKnow what to bring before you start
Tax season goes faster - and costs less - when your documents are gathered up front. This guided checklist asks about your income, deductions, dependents, and a few special situations, then turns your answers into a clear, categorized list you can work from. It mirrors how we'd start your engagement, in plain language rather than tax jargon.
Great for…
- First-time filers who aren't sure what's needed
- Anyone with a new job, side income, or investments
- Families navigating dependents and credits
- Getting organized before your appointment with us
Good to know
- It's guidance, not tax advice - we confirm everything before filing
- Private by design: nothing is saved or sent
- Available in English, Español, 中文, and العربية
Build your personalized checklist
Answer each question below. You can go back to change an answer at any time, and start over whenever you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to file a 1040?
It depends on how you earned and spent money during the year. At a minimum you'll need last year's return, photo ID and Social Security numbers or ITINs for everyone on the return, and your income forms (such as W-2s and 1099s). The checklist above builds a personalized list based on your answers.
Do I have to itemize deductions?
Not necessarily. Most taxpayers take the standard deduction, but itemizing can save more if you paid significant mortgage interest, state and local taxes, charitable donations, or medical expenses. We compare both and use whichever lowers your tax.
When is my individual tax return due?
Individual federal returns are generally due April 15. If you need more time, an extension moves the filing deadline to October 15 - but any tax owed is still due in April.
Is anything I enter saved or sent?
No. The checklist runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you select is submitted, stored, or shared - it simply builds your document list on screen.
Ready to hand it off?
Once your documents are together, send them our way - in English, Español, 中文, or العربية - and we'll take it from there with fixed fees and senior-level attention.
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