As we move into tax season, one of the most helpful things you can do is get organized early. Providing complete and timely information allows our team to prepare your return efficiently, minimize follow-up questions, and ensure nothing is overlooked.

A little preparation now can make the overall process much smoother.

Start Early and Send Information Together

We encourage you to begin preparing as early as possible. As your documents arrive, gather and organize them, and plan to submit the majority of your information by the end of February.

If possible, provide your documents in one complete submission rather than sending items separately. Receiving everything together allows us to start your return promptly and complete it efficiently, helping to avoid unnecessary delays.

Use Your Tax Organizer as a Guide

Your tax organizer is designed to make this process easier. It reflects your prior-year return and serves as a checklist to help you identify what may be needed again.

At a minimum, please complete the organizer questionnaire. This helps us understand any changes during the year and ensures we consider all applicable deductions and credits.

Common items to review include:

• W-2s
• 1099s
• Social Security benefits
• Self-employment income and expenses
• Childcare and education expenses
• Retirement contributions
• Itemized deductions

Areas That May Require Additional Attention

Certain items may require more detailed information this year to ensure your return is complete and accurate. Please review the following areas and provide details if they apply to you.

Self-employed individuals, rental property owners, and farmers
Provide a clear summary of your annual income and expenses. Well-organized totals allow us to prepare your return more efficiently and reduce follow-up questions.

Itemized Deductions
Although many taxpayers have used the standard deduction in recent years, potential changes under the OBBBA may allow more individuals to itemize for 2025. Please gather documentation for medical expenses, property taxes, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions so we can determine the most beneficial approach.

Estimated Tax Payments
Let us know if you made any federal or state estimated tax payments during the year, including the dates and amounts paid.

Direct Deposit or Direct Debit
If you would like your refund directly deposited or prefer direct debit for balances due or estimated payments, please provide your current banking information.

Inform Us of Life Changes

Life changes can significantly impact your tax return. Please inform us if you experienced any of the following in 2025:

• A change in filing status
• A change in dependents
• A job change
• A new address
• College expenses
• New investment accounts

If you anticipate significant changes in 2026, sharing that information now allows us to help you proactively plan for the future.

Finally, please confirm your preferences for return delivery, the handling of original documents, and your preferred method of contact.

Gathering and submitting organized information early helps us serve you efficiently and positions you for the best possible outcome. If you have questions as you prepare your materials, our team is here to help.