Common Documents for Individual Tax Returns

by | Aug 16, 2021 | Accounting, Government, Internal Revenue Service, Tax

Getting your tax documents together to send to your tax preparer can be overwhelming, but we can help!  One of the most common questions we are often asked is, “What documents are needed for individual tax returns?”.

Below is a list of some basic information your tax preparer will need, along with some of the most common documents one might receive. This is a simple overview of the most common documents needed for tax season, but remember, everything listed may not apply to you. If you would like a more thorough checklist, reach out to us and we can send one to you! 

Basic Information

  • Full Legal Name, Spouse’s Full Legal Name, Social Security Numbers and Birthdates
  • Same info for your children 
  • Your Email Address and Spouse’s Email Address (each individual needs a unique email address, per the IRS for e-signature guidelines)
  • Checking or Savings Account info – Routing number, account number, and account type (if you are doing direct deposit)

Common Forms (this is not a complete list)

  • W2’s
  • W-2-G – Gambling Income
  • Schedules K-1 – Share of Income, Deductions and Credits
  • 1099’s (there are many different types of 1099’s. Send everything you receive and let us know if you are expecting additional forms) Some examples Include:
    • 1099-B – Stock/Mutual Fund Transactions
    • 1099-R – IRA Distributions
    • 1099-G – Unemployment, State and Local Refunds
    • 1099-MISC – Rents, Royalties and Other Income
    • 1099-NEC – Independent or Contract Work
    • 1099-INT – Interest Income
    • 1099-DIV – Dividends
    • 1099-B – Stock Sales
    • 1099 Composite – Investment Income
    • 1099-S (if you sold a home)
    • 1099-SA – HSA Distributions
    • SA-1099 – Social Security Benefit
  • 1095-A, -B, -C – Health Insurance Documentation
  • 1098 – Mortgage Interest
  • 1098-T – Tuition Paid
  • 1098-E – Student Loan Interest
  • 5498 – IRA and HSA Contributions

Other Helpful Information/Documentation

  • Alimony Received
  • Rental Property Income and Expenses
  • Business Income and Expenses
  • Any Letters or Communication from the IRS
  • Child Care Expenses
  • Teacher Expenses
  • Medical/Dental Expenses
  • Charitable Donations
  • Real Estate Taxes Paid
  • Other Income and Expenses
  • 1040-ES – Summary of Estimated Tax Payments Made
  • IRS Notice 1444 or other records showing economic stimulus payments
  • Advance Child Tax Credit Payments Received
  • Identity Protection PIN (if issued by the IRS)
  • New Clients should send the previous 2 years State and Federal tax returns.

This is not an exhaustive list of everything you may receive and need to submit to the IRS, but this should give you a general idea of what your tax preparer will need from you.

All documents can be submitted through our secure client portal.  Find more information regarding our NEW client portal HERE!

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 248-934-0550.

 

Confessions of a Bookkeeper

Let’s clear something up right away: bookkeeping is not just typing numbers into a spreadsheet while drinking coffee and judging people’s expense decisions.

Well, it’s partly that. But there’s so much more to it.

Received an Odd Michigan Treasury Notice? You’re Not Alone

If you recently received a strange notice from the Michigan Department of Treasury, take a breath. You are not the only one.

2026 Tax Season in the Books: Thank You

Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for supporting our team. Thank you for your patience, your feedback, your referrals, and your grace during one of the busiest times of the year.

So You Filed Your Taxes… Now What?

You did it. You gathered the documents, answered the questions, signed where needed, and got your tax return filed. If we helped prepare it for you, we can confidently say you handled your part like a pro. Now comes the part nobody loves but everyone participates in anyway: waiting for your refund.

Missed Tax Deadline?

If April 15 came and went and you didn’t file your tax return, or submit an extension, you’re definitely not the only one. It happens every year for all kinds of reasons. The important thing now is what you do next.

The IRS Dirty Dozen for 2026 and Why Those “Tax Hacks” Might Cost You

Every year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, and every year the schemes get a little more creative and a lot more convincing. The 2026 list is no exception.

Extensions Aren’t Scary

Not going to make the April 15the deadline?

That’s okay. Nothing bad will happen.

Tax Extensions for 2025 Returns: What Current Clients Need to Know

First, let’s be clear

A tax extension gives you more time to file. It does not give you more time to pay.

Beware of the Latest IRS Impersonation Scam

IRS impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. The newest trend involves fraudulent IRS communications – delivered via email, phone calls, or even seemingly official mail – that attempt to intimidate individuals into providing personal information or making payments.

How Senter CPA Helps You Stay Organized, Compliant, and Confident

Accurate record-keeping, strong organizational habits, and effective use of accounting software are essential pillars of sound financial management. Whether managing a small business, a nonprofit, or personal finances, these practices not only ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements but also support smarter decision-making and long-term financial health.

Contact Us

8 + 11 =

Always remember, Senter, CPA is here for you if you need any assistance.

Don't hesitate to give us a call at 248-934-0550, or contact us below.

Confessions of a Bookkeeper

Let’s clear something up right away: bookkeeping is not just typing numbers into a spreadsheet while drinking coffee and judging people’s expense decisions.

Well, it’s partly that. But there’s so much more to it.

Received an Odd Michigan Treasury Notice? You’re Not Alone

If you recently received a strange notice from the Michigan Department of Treasury, take a breath. You are not the only one.

2026 Tax Season in the Books: Thank You

Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for supporting our team. Thank you for your patience, your feedback, your referrals, and your grace during one of the busiest times of the year.

So You Filed Your Taxes… Now What?

You did it. You gathered the documents, answered the questions, signed where needed, and got your tax return filed. If we helped prepare it for you, we can confidently say you handled your part like a pro. Now comes the part nobody loves but everyone participates in anyway: waiting for your refund.

Missed Tax Deadline?

If April 15 came and went and you didn’t file your tax return, or submit an extension, you’re definitely not the only one. It happens every year for all kinds of reasons. The important thing now is what you do next.

The IRS Dirty Dozen for 2026 and Why Those “Tax Hacks” Might Cost You

Every year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, and every year the schemes get a little more creative and a lot more convincing. The 2026 list is no exception.

Extensions Aren’t Scary

Not going to make the April 15the deadline?

That’s okay. Nothing bad will happen.

Tax Extensions for 2025 Returns: What Current Clients Need to Know

First, let’s be clear

A tax extension gives you more time to file. It does not give you more time to pay.

Beware of the Latest IRS Impersonation Scam

IRS impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. The newest trend involves fraudulent IRS communications – delivered via email, phone calls, or even seemingly official mail – that attempt to intimidate individuals into providing personal information or making payments.

How Senter CPA Helps You Stay Organized, Compliant, and Confident

Accurate record-keeping, strong organizational habits, and effective use of accounting software are essential pillars of sound financial management. Whether managing a small business, a nonprofit, or personal finances, these practices not only ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements but also support smarter decision-making and long-term financial health.