What You Need Before Filing Your Taxes (Personal & Business)

Tax season’s around the corner—and whether you’re filing for yourself, your business, or both, being unprepared is not the vibe. So let’s break down exactly what you need before you even think about hitting submit.

If You’re Filing Personal Taxes:

Before you sit down to file, here’s your short checklist:

1. Your W-2 or 1099sIf you’re employed, grab that W-2. If you’re self-employed or freelance, collect all your 1099 forms. Miss one and the IRS will find it before you do.

2. Income from Side Hustles

Sold products online? Made some cash from a part-time gig? It counts. Keep track of any extra income.

3. Deductions & Credits Info

Things like student loan interest, childcare costs, education expenses, medical bills—these can reduce your tax bill (or boost your refund).

4. Direct Deposit Info

Want your refund ASAP? Make sure you have your bank account and routing numbers ready.

Bonus Tip: Filing early = faster refunds and fewer surprises.

If You’re a Business Owner:

You’ve got a few extra layers to prep for, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

1. Profit & Loss Statement (P&L)

This is the heartbeat of your business taxes. It shows what you earned and what you spent. Not sure where yours is? We can help with that.

2. Organized Receipts & Expenses

Mileage logs, equipment purchases, meals, subscriptions—gather them all. The more organized you are, the more you’ll likely save.

3. 1099s You Sent to Contractors

If you hired freelancers or contractors, you’ll need to report what you paid them.

4. Home Office or Business Use of Vehicle Info

These deductions can save you big—if you have the records to back them up.

5. Bookkeeping in Order

Seriously. If your books are messy, everything else is harder. Clean books = clean filing.

Want Some Help Getting Ready?

We offer 1-on-1 consultations to walk you through everything you need—whether it’s your first time filing or your fifteenth.

👉🏾 Book Your Tax Consultation Now

Let’s make this the year tax season feels... surprisingly easy!

— In The Moment Financial Services