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Tax Time Checklist: Prepare for Tax Season

Use this checklist to gather the information you need to file your 2023 taxes. Share it with families in your program to help them get ready for tax season, even if they don't usually file. The checklist can help avoid multiple trips to a tax preparer.

Free Tax Services Available

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax help to people who need assistance preparing their tax returns, including people who make $64,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and taxpayers with limited English proficiency. Families can usually find VITA sites in community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. To locate a VITA program near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call (toll-free) 888-227-7669.

The IRS Free File offers many online resources and tax help. Find tax forms, instructions and publications, online payment options, and more. Individuals can even prepare and file their federal income tax online for free.

Tax Documents

  • Photo ID
  • Social Security card or verification letter, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter for all family members
  • W-2 forms for all jobs worked in 2023
  • Form 1099-G for unemployment compensation and state or local tax refunds
  • Form W-2G and other 1099 forms for other income in 2023.
  • Child care provider name, address, tax ID number, and the amount you paid them in 2023 for child care costs
  • A copy of last year’s state and federal tax returns
  • Other applicable tax-related documents, such as interest statements, federal loan documents, and retirement statements

Health Insurance Documents

  • Forms 1095-A, B, or C, Affordable Health Care Statements, or health insurance exemption certificates

Bank Account Information

  • Banking or credit union account information
  • Voided check or savings deposit slip

These documents can help you quickly deposit your refund and use some of it for savings.

Identify Protection PIN

  • An Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number or ITIN. Get an IP PIN quickly.

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