When should I start gathering documents for my CPA?

Start collecting documents in January as they arrive. Most forms — W-2s, 1099s, 1098s — are legally required to be mailed by January 31. Brokerage statements for investment sales typically arrive by mid-February. Aim to have everything organized and sent to your CPA by the first week of March to avoid extension territory.

What if I'm missing a document?

If a form has not arrived by mid-February, contact the issuer directly. For missing W-2s, you can request a transcript from the IRS using Form 4506-T as a backup, but the issuer copy is always preferable. Do not estimate figures — using incorrect numbers creates accuracy problems that can trigger IRS notices later.

Do I need to bring my prior year return?

Yes. Your CPA will use last year's return to confirm carryforward items (net operating losses, capital loss carryovers, prior year estimated tax payments), check for consistency, and identify any changes that need explanation. If you are switching CPAs, bring the last two years if possible.

What to Bring to a CPA for Tax Season

May 15, 2026

Why Preparation Saves You Money

CPAs charge for their time. A disorganized client who arrives with a shoebox of unsorted receipts pays significantly more than a prepared client who delivers a clean package of organized documents. The hour your CPA spends sorting your paperwork costs you $150–$400 — time that could go toward actual tax strategy.

Personal Income Documents

W-2 forms — from every employer during the year
1099-NEC or 1099-MISC — freelance, contract, or gig income
1099-INT — bank interest income
1099-DIV — dividend income from investments
1099-B — proceeds from stock or securities sales
1099-R — distributions from retirement accounts
SSA-1099 — Social Security benefits received
1099-G — state tax refunds or unemployment benefits
K-1 forms — income from partnerships, S-corps, trusts, or estates

Deduction and Credit Documents

1098 Mortgage Interest Statement — from your lender
Property tax bills — for any real property you own
Charitable donation receipts — written acknowledgment for gifts over $250
Medical expense records — if total exceeds 7.5% of AGI
1098-E — student loan interest paid
1098-T — tuition payments for education credits
Childcare provider information — name, EIN, and amount paid
Vehicle mileage logs — for business, medical, or charitable use

Business Income and Expense Records

If you are self-employed or own a business, also bring:

Profit and loss statement for the year
Business bank and credit card statements
Payroll records and W-3/W-2 copies (if you have employees)
Asset purchase records for anything bought or placed in service during the year
Home office measurements — square footage of office vs. total home
Business loan statements showing interest paid
Retirement plan contribution records (SEP-IRA, Solo 401k, SIMPLE IRA)

Prior Year and Administrative Documents

Prior year federal and state tax returns
Estimated tax payments made during the year (and dates)
IRS or state notices received during the year
Social Security numbers for all dependents
Bank account and routing number for direct deposit of refunds

Organizing Before You Go

Use a simple folder system: one folder per category (income, deductions, business, prior year). Scan or photograph paper documents and email them to your CPA in advance so they can prepare before your meeting. Many CPAs now use secure client portals — ask about this option.

Find a CPA who makes the process easy by browsing our city directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start gathering documents for my CPA?: Start collecting documents in January as they arrive. Most forms — W-2s, 1099s, 1098s — are legally required to be mailed by January 31. Brokerage statements for investment sales typically arrive by mid-February. Aim to have everything organized and sent to your CPA by the first week of March to avoid extension territory.
What if I'm missing a document?: If a form has not arrived by mid-February, contact the issuer directly. For missing W-2s, you can request a transcript from the IRS using Form 4506-T as a backup, but the issuer copy is always preferable. Do not estimate figures — using incorrect numbers creates accuracy problems that can trigger IRS notices later.
Do I need to bring my prior year return?: Yes. Your CPA will use last year's return to confirm carryforward items (net operating losses, capital loss carryovers, prior year estimated tax payments), check for consistency, and identify any changes that need explanation. If you are switching CPAs, bring the last two years if possible.