The JAW Journal

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Preparing for Tax Day: Your Complete Checklist for a
Stress-Free Experience 

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when you’re prepared. Whether you’re filing as an individual, a small business, or managing multiple income streams, being organized before your tax appointment can save you time, reduce costly errors, and even maximize your return. 

At JAW Virtual Tax & Accounting, we make the process simple, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Use this quick guide to make sure you’re ready for Tax Day and feel confident every step of the way. 

Step 1
Gather Your Essential Identification & Income Documents

Before your appointment, take a moment to pull together your required documents. These are the basics that help ensure your return is accurate and processed without delay.

Personal Identification:
  • Driver’s License or State ID (for you and your spouse)
  • Social Security Cards 
  • Proof of residence for dependents (for Earned Income Credit claims) 
Income Documentation:
  • W-2 forms from all employers 
  • 1099 forms (interest, dividends, self-employment, investments)
  • K-1s for partnerships or S-Corps
  • Social Security (SSA-1099) or unemployment (1099-G) forms
  • Profit and loss statements for business or rental income
  • IRA or pension distributions (1099-R)
  • Property sale or debt cancellation (1099-C) documents

Pro tip: 
Use our Document Checklist to find any missing forms or verify your income sources.

Step 2
Collect Deduction & Credit Information 

Maximizing your return starts with knowing what deductions and credits you qualify for. Having these ready allows your tax preparer to help you keep more of your hard-earned money.

Tax Deductions & credit documents:
  • Child care expenses (including provider details) 
  • Education expenses (Forms 1098-T and receipts) 
  • Charitable donations (cash, property, or mileage) 
  • Mortgage interest and property taxes (Forms 1098) 
  • State/local taxes and vehicle license fees 
  • Medical and dental expenses 
  • IRA contributions, student loan interest, and energy credits 

Step 3
Prepare for any Business or Self-Employed Filing  

If you run a small business or freelance, organization is everything.
Be sure to have: 

  • Profit/loss statements and business expenses 
  • Home office dimensions and utility expenses 
  • Self-employed pension (SEP, SIMPLE, Keogh) information 
  • Business startup or expansion costs 
  • Any business-related loan documents 

Not sure what applies to your business? 
Our Bookkeeping and Small Business Packages include personalized support and quarterly check-ins to keep you on track year-round.

Step 4
Check on Your Refund or Balance Due 

After your return is filed, you can check your refund status or IRS correspondence through: 

  • IRS.gov Refund Status 
  • IRS Inquiry Line: (800) 829-1040 

Or better yet, let JAW Virtual Tax & Accounting track it for you! Clients using our virtual platform get automatic updates, status alerts, and easy document access through our secure Client Portal. 

Simplify Your Tax Season with JAW Virtual Tax & Accounting 

Tax time doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With over 40 years of trusted experience, JAW Virtual Tax & Accounting combines professional expertise with modern tools to make filing easy, accurate, and stress-free, all while helping you maximize your return. 

Virtual & in-person appointments available 
Affordable pricing and flexible service packages
Personalized support from start to finish


Ready to get started? 
Explore our services now and take the stress out of tax season with a partner you can trust. 

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