Start with the right period
- Identify the tax year and the business’s federal tax classification.
- Gather the prior return and questions from your preparer.
- Confirm any filing extension and payment dates separately.
Make the handoff easier
Tax season starts
with your records.
A practical starting checklist for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners. Your preparer may request different or additional documents.
Reviewed September 14, 2026How Olga can help
From scattered records
to an organized starting point.
I help organize bookkeeping and supporting records, identify missing information, and prepare a clearer handoff. A qualified tax professional determines your filing position and prepares the return.
Organize income records
- Collect income statements and sales reports relevant to your situation.
- Reconcile platform reports with gross receipts, refunds, and fees.
- Keep personal transfers distinct from business receipts.
Support your expenses
- Collect receipts, invoices, and the business purpose for relevant costs.
- Organize bank and credit-card statements for the full period.
- Gather business asset purchase records and mileage logs where applicable.
Close the bookkeeping gaps
- Reconcile the agreed accounts and identify unresolved differences.
- Review outstanding invoices, bills, loan balances, and owner transactions.
- Prepare the reports and open-items list requested by your preparer.
Flag special questions early
- Tell your preparer about moves, changes in ownership, and activity in additional states.
- Gather travel dates and residency information if international rules may apply.
- Identify foreign accounts or foreign ownership for a qualified professional to review.
Arrange a secure handoff
- Confirm the preparer’s current checklist and secure delivery method.
- Do not send tax identifiers, passports, passwords, or full tax records through ordinary introductory email.
- Keep copies of the records and the questions still awaiting an answer.
Your checklist is individual.
This guide does not determine filing obligations, deductions, residency, or tax due. Use it to prepare for a discussion with your tax professional. Current U.S. service scope does not include paid return preparation, return signing, or IRS representation.
Go to the source
Keep the original guidance close.
Need a clearer starting point?
Send a general description of the records you need help organizing.
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