Your Safe Tax Preparation Checklist

Gather all required documents now to ensure a fast, accurate, and maximized refund.


Understanding Income Reporting (W-2 vs. 1099)

W-2: Wages (Traditional Employee) 1099: Non-Employee Compensation (Self-Employed)
Status: Traditional employee (on the payroll).
Taxes: Income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes are withheld by your employer.
Status: Independent contractor, freelancer, or business owner.
Taxes: You are fully responsible for paying your own income and self-employment taxes (estimated tax payments).

1. Personal & Financial Essentials

  • Driver’s License or Official ID: Required for you and your spouse (if filing jointly).
  • Social Security Cards: Required for you, your spouse, and every dependent.
  • Bank Account Details: Your Bank Account Number and Routing Number for direct deposit.
  • Past Two Tax Returns (Optional):

    Having copies of your last two returns provides an invaluable reference point for our professionals.

2. Annual Income Reporting

  • W-2 Forms: Wage income from an employer.
  • Profit and Loss (P&L) Statement: Required if you have business/self-employment income.

List of Key 1099 & Investment Forms

1099-NEC Non-Employee Compensation (Income from independent contract, freelance, or gig work).
1099-INT / 1099-DIV / K-1 Income from Investments, interest, or dividends.
1099-R Income from Pensions, IRAs, Annuities, or profit-sharing distributions.
1099-G Unemployment Income and state tax refunds.
SSA 1099 Social Security Benefits received during the year.
1099-MISC Miscellaneous income, including rents or royalties.

3. Adjustments, Deductions, and Tax Credits

These documents help reduce your taxable income or your final tax liability.

Documents for Income Adjustments (Reduces Taxable Income)

  • Form 1098-E: Records for Student Loan Interest paid.
  • IRA or MSA Contributions: Documentation for contributions made to these accounts.
  • Records of Self-Employed Health Insurance Payments and Pension Plans (Keogh, SEP, SIMPLE).
  • Estimated Tax Payments made during the year.

Documents for Tax Credits (Reduces Tax Bill Dollar-for-Dollar)

  • Child Tax Credit: Information verifying dependent eligibility.
  • Child Care Costs (Dependent Care Credit):

    You must have your provider’s name, address, Tax ID, and the total annual expense amount.

  • Higher Education Costs: Form 1098-T (Tuition) and receipts for educational expenses.
  • Charitable Donations: Written acknowledgment required for cash or property contributions of $250 or more.
  • Retirement Savings: Contributions to 401(k) or IRA (to claim the Saver's Credit).

Find a Location Near you

Visit a Safe Tax Office location near you or file online from anywhere! Start by entering your zip code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to help you make confident financial decisions.

Tax season typically begins in late January when the IRS starts accepting returns. Safe Tax Nation can help you get prepared early.

You’ll need W-2s, 1099s, ID, proof of dependents, and receipts for deductions or credits you plan to claim.

If your income exceeds the IRS filing threshold or you meet specific conditions (like self-employment), you must file a return.

Yes. Contact your employer for a copy, or use Form 4852 if they can’t provide it in time.

You may face penalties and interest on unpaid taxes. Filing as soon as possible helps minimize costs.

Most refunds arrive within 21 days if you e-file and choose direct deposit.

Absolutely. We can help you file past-due returns and communicate with the IRS to get you back on track.

Safe Tax Nation offers affordable tax filing options with transparent pricing — no hidden fees.

You can file an amended return (Form 1040-X). We’ll handle it for you to correct any errors quickly.

Yes, the executor or a family member can file a final return on behalf of the deceased.

The standard deduction is a fixed amount that reduces your taxable income. Itemizing allows you to deduct specific expenses like mortgage interest or medical costs.

Students with income above the filing threshold or those receiving scholarships/grants may need to file. We can check for education credits too.

You’ll need to report income and expenses using Schedule C. We’ll help ensure your deductions are maximized and accurate.

Yes, unemployment income is generally taxable and must be reported on your return.

Claiming dependents can qualify you for valuable credits such as the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Credit.

Yes, the Child and Dependent Care Credit may apply if you pay for childcare while you work or look for work.

You can pay in full or set up a payment plan. We’ll help you choose the best option and avoid unnecessary penalties.

Use the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool or contact us and we’ll help track it for you.

Yes, married couples can file jointly or separately depending on which provides the best outcome. We’ll help you decide.

Because we make taxes simple. Our experts ensure accuracy, maximize your refund, and keep your process stress-free from start to finish.