Tax season can be overwhelming, but staying organized makes the process much smoother. Whether you’re filing your taxes yourself or working with a professional, having all the necessary documents ready will save you time and stress. To help, I’ve created a Free Printable Tax Return Checklist that includes everything you need to gather before filing your return.

This checklist will help you know what items you need to prepare your taxes and tax return. This is a free digital download delivered to your email for you to print from home. You can find that free printable tax return checklist here.
You can find my free personal records printable checklist here to help you keep your papers organized. Get this What To Do When a Loved One Dies Checklist here to help plan for the death of a loved one. Get this digital download delivered to your email instantly for you to download and print from home. You can find that In Case of Death Plan Binder here.
Also, you can check out my post on how to organize receipts here. Or, find my bill due date printable calendar page here.
Why You Need a Tax Return Checklist

A tax return checklist ensures you don’t forget any important documents, deductions, or credits. By keeping everything in one place, you can:
- Avoid last-minute scrambling for paperwork
- Maximize your deductions and credits
- Prevent errors that could lead to delays or audits
- File your taxes quickly and efficiently
What’s Included in the Tax Return Checklist
The checklist covers all the essential documents you’ll need, including:
Personal Information
- Social Security numbers (SSN) for you, your spouse, and dependents
- Valid government-issued ID
- Last year’s tax return (if available)
Income Documents

- W-2 forms from employers
- 1099 forms for freelance, contract, or miscellaneous income
- Investment income statements (1099-DIV, 1099-INT, 1099-B)
- Retirement income (1099-R, SSA-1099 for Social Security)
- Rental income records
- Any additional sources of income
Deductions & Credits
- Mortgage interest statement (Form 1098)
- Student loan interest statement (1098-E)
- Educational expenses (1098-T, receipts for tuition, books, supplies)
- Childcare expenses (provider’s name, address, and tax ID)
- Medical and dental expenses
- Charitable donations and receipts
- State and local taxes paid (property taxes, state income tax)
- Business expenses (for self-employed individuals, freelancers, or contractors)

Banking & Payment Information
- Bank account and routing number (for direct deposit refunds)
- Records of estimated tax payments
Other Important Documents
- Health insurance coverage forms (1095-A, 1095-B, or 1095-C)
- Identity Protection PIN (if issued by the IRS)
- Any correspondence from the IRS

How to Use the Free Printable Tax Return Checklist
- Download & Print – This is a free digital download delivered to your email for you to print from home. You can find that free printable tax return checklist here.
- Gather Your Documents – Use the checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
- Keep Everything Organized – Store your documents in a folder or binder for easy access.
- File Your Taxes with Confidence – Whether filing online, with software, or using a professional, you’ll be prepared.
Get Your Free Printable Tax Return Checklist

Don’t let tax season stress you out! This is a free digital download delivered to your email for you to print from home. You can find that free printable tax return checklist here. Download your Free Printable Tax Return Checklist today and stay ahead of the game. Being prepared will help you file faster, maximize deductions, and ensure a hassle-free tax season.
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