We are here to make filing your taxes as quick and simple as we can so you can get back to your real life.

One of the many benefits of having our tax professionals prepare your return is that when you return next year, taxes will be so easy! We'll have all your information saved and ready to transfer into your new return.

When you first arrive, we will need to ask you a lot of questions about what changed since last year, and then we'll be ready to get you the credits and deductions you qualify for - so be prepared!

When we have completed your tax return, we will return your paperwork to you along with a copy of your tax return (green folder). It is important that you keep this folder (remember where you put it!) and the information used to prepare your return for a minimum of 5 years.

New Clients

If we have never prepared a return for you, or if it has been a few years since we prepared your return, we ask that you bring a copy of your last filed tax return. In addition, we will need a photo ID to prove that you are, in fact, the person whose name appears at the top of the 1040. A driver's license, passport or military ID should work just fine. Most importantly, don't forget to bring your Social Security card and the Social Security cards of your spouse and everyone you claim as a dependent. If you're married and filing jointly, make sure your spouse comes with you, because he or she will need to co-sign the tax return before it can be filed.

The IRS requires a valid Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) for each tax return. If you were born in the United States or born abroad to American citizens, you can apply for a Social Security number. But even non-U.S. citizens are often required to file federal tax returns. If you were born in another country and live and work in the U.S. as a resident or non-resident alien, and don't qualify for a Social Security number, then you need to apply for an ITIN to file taxes.

To claim dependents on your tax return, we will need their Social Security numbers as well as their full names and dates of birth. Every year, the IRS sends back hundreds of thousands of tax returns because the names and Social Security numbers on the forms don't match.

If you are divorced with children, in general, the custodial parent is the only one allowed to claim a child as a dependent. But the custodial parent can waive that right by signing a release form (Form 8332) allowing the former spouse to claim the child as a dependent and collect a Child Tax Credit, too. We will need this Form 8332 if that is the case.

If you will be utilizing a bank product, we will also need your (and your spouse's) Driver's License, and both of you will need to be present to sign the bank application.

All New and Returning Clients - What to Bring

Before we can complete your return, we will need the following information. Some items may not apply to you, and some items may seem pervasive. However, please remember that we prepare your tax return to be able to withstand any potential IRS questions and/or audits. If you are also a Sole Proprietor of a business (LLC or dba), in addition to the information below, you will need to check the list of information needed for Small Business returns.

Income Information

• W-2s from all employers
• 1099-MISC from self-employment
• K-1S/K-1P/K-1
• Foreign income received
• Rental Property Income (receipts/bank statements/etc)
• Royalty Income
• SSA-1099 Social Security Benefit Statements
• 1099-R Retirement/Pension/IRA Income
• 1099-DIV and 1099-INT Statements
• 1099-B (sometimes included in brokerage statements)
• Investment income from sale of stock, interest, dividends, etc.
• 1099-G Unemployment Benefits
• W-2G Gambling Winnings
• SSI benefit statement
• 1099-C Cancellation of Debt (foreclosure/repossession/etc.)
• Misc Income statements (Tips, Combat Pay, Jury Duty, Alimony, Bartering, etc.)

Deductible Information

The number one reason for taking your tax return to a professional is to increase your deductions. All taxpayers are allowed a standard deduction. But our tax professionals, with the help of ample documentation of expenses, may be able to shrink your tax burden even further by itemizing deductions. Here is a general list of the expenses that qualify for itemized deductions. You will need receipts or other proof to claim each deduction:

• 1098 Mortgage Interest
• Real Estate taxes paid (may be on 1098 and must have been paid last year)
• Personal property tax expenses (large purchases such as vehicle)
• Medical/dental/vision out-of-pocket expenses
• IRA Contributions
• 1098-T Student tuition
• Student loan interest
• Education expenses (that directly relate to your job or field)
• Cash and Noncash Charitable Contributions
• Unreimbursed employee expenses
• Gambling losses

Other Information

• Social Security cards/Death Certificates for dependency changes from last year
• Closing papers for any property bought/sold/refinanced
• Receipts related to work relocation (moving expenses)
• Receipts for tuition and fees for higher education
• Childcare receipts - including SSNs for individuals providing care
• Vehicle log for any use of personal vehicle on the job (other than commuting)
• Insurance information and receipts for replacement of damaged or stolen property
• Union dues
• Job-hunting expenses