What Documents Are Needed to File Taxes? Get Your Checklist Ready Now
Filing your taxes can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to gather everything at once. If you’re asking yourself, “What documents do I need to file my taxes?” — you’re not alone. The good news is that with the right preparation, you can make the process much smoother.
Whether you're filing your federal return electronically or working with a local tax pro, having the proper documents on hand can help you complete your return accurately and potentially get your refund faster.
At AY Miller, we help taxpayers in Denver every tax season by cutting through the clutter.
Why You Need to File
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires individuals to file a federal tax return if their income exceeds a certain threshold. But even if you’re under that limit, you may still want to file to claim a refund or qualify for credits like the Child Tax Credit or the Earned Income Tax Credit.
And if you had federal tax withholding, estimated tax payments, or self-employment income, you must file to reconcile what you owe or are owed.
What Documents Do You Need to File
Wondering what documents you need to file your tax return correctly? Here’s a breakdown organized into useful categories.
Identification Documents You Must Have
Before you jump into your federal income tax return, gather your personal identification:
Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
Driver’s license or state ID
Taxpayer Identification Number for dependents, if applicable
If you're a noncustodial parent claiming a child, be sure to have Form 8332 signed by the custodial parent.
Income Documents: Know Your Sources of Income
Your tax return must reflect all forms of income, including:
Form W-2 - for wages and employment income
1099-NEC - for self-employment or freelance work
1099-MISC - for other income like rental or prize winnings
1099-INT and 1099-DIV - for interest or dividend income from savings accounts and investments
Statements from pensions, annuities, Social Security, or unemployment benefits
Business income and expenses (if applicable)
Prior year returns if you're comparing information or carrying over previous data
These forms document critical tax information and help you calculate your adjusted gross income properly.
Deduction & Credit Documents
Even in straightforward tax situations, deductions and credits can lower your tax payments and boost your refund. Bring:
Mortgage interest statements
Property tax receipts
Records of donations
Childcare provider details
Student loan interest documents (Form 1098-E)
Health insurance forms (such as 1095-A)
These documents support eligibility requirements for tax savings and help with income tax planning.
Tax Payments & Filing Details
You’ll also need:
A copy of your prior year tax return
Records of any estimated tax payments made throughout the tax year
Bank account and routing number if you want your tax refund by direct deposit
Applicable business tax documentation if you're self-employed, including bookkeeping reports or QuickBooks exports
And if your filing status changed due to marriage, divorce, or a new dependent, bring supporting documents like custody agreements.
Your Tax Documents Checklist
Feeling overwhelmed? Use this quick checklist to keep it all straight:
Identification for everyone on your return
Proof of all types of income
Receipts or forms for income tax deductions or credits
Records of tax payments or estimated tax made
Your filing status documentation
Prior year returns for comparison or carryover
Tax form summaries (W-2, 1099, etc.)
Choosing How to File: Free File or Tax Pro?
Thanks to programs like IRS Direct File and Turbotax Free Edition, many taxpayers who meet specific eligibility requirements can file for free. However, if your tax situation is more complicated (self-employment, business income, property sales, child custody), working with a tax professional may offer peace of mind and help avoid a tax audit.
If you're looking for a friendly, knowledgeable partner for your tax preparation in the United States, partnering with a reliable tax accountant in Denver can make a big difference.
Filing With Confidence in Denver
So, when it's time to file, don’t leave things to chance. Whether you choose to file form 1040 manually, file electronically, or work with a local tax preparer, having all the documents needed to file will help you complete your return accurately and potentially claim a larger tax refund.
At AY Miller, we make individual tax filing easier by helping you gather the tax documents you need, manage your tax prep, and understand the best strategies for tax savings. Our clients trust us for clear and practical tax advice—because that’s what neighbors do.
Next Steps
If you’re still asking, “What documents do I need to file my taxes?”—it’s time to act. Go through the documents you need to file, get your return prepped, and explore whether you can file for free or need a seasoned tax pro to help.
Make this tax season stress-free by letting AY Miller be your partner in tax filing and strategy.
Reach out today to schedule your consultation or download our helpful tax prep resources.
The way you file matters. Let’s make it count.
