What Documents Do You Need to File Taxes in 2027?

Before you sit down for your tax appointment, the single most useful thing you can do is gather your documents in one place. It sounds simple, but the difference between a smooth filing and a back-and-forth chase for missing paperwork usually comes down to preparation. This guide walks through the categories most taxpayers need to think about before filing.

Start with identification

Every taxpayer on a return needs to be identified. Bring a government-issued photo ID for yourself (and your spouse, if filing jointly), along with Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) for you, your spouse, and any dependents. These details confirm identity and match what the IRS has on file.

Income documents (W-2s and 1099s)

Income documents are the backbone of your return. If you were an employee, gather every Form W-2 you received for the tax year — including ones from jobs you left during the year. If you worked as a contractor, freelancer, or gig worker, collect your 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC forms. Other common 1099s include 1099-INT and 1099-DIV for interest and dividends, and 1099-R for retirement distributions.

One common surprise: income you earned without receiving a 1099 still counts. If a client paid you below the 1099 reporting threshold, you still report that income. Keep your own records so nothing is missed.

Self-employment and business income

Self-employed taxpayers should bring a summary of business income and expenses, mileage logs, and records of estimated tax payments made during the year. The more organized these records are, the more accurately your return can be prepared. See our self-employed tax filing guide for a deeper look.

Dependent information

If you claim dependents, bring each dependent's full name, Social Security number or ITIN, date of birth, and the months they lived with you during the year. Dependent eligibility depends on IRS rules around residency, support, and relationship — bring the information and we apply the rules that fit your household.

Deduction and credit documents

Depending on your situation, you may have documents that support deductions or credits: education expenses (Form 1098-T), student loan interest, mortgage interest (Form 1098), property tax records, childcare expenses, and records of retirement contributions. Whether itemizing or taking the standard deduction makes sense depends on your total situation — we help you decide.

Prior-year return and bank information

A copy of your prior-year tax return helps us carry forward carryovers, confirm prior information, and spot changes. And if you're expecting a refund and want direct deposit, bring your bank's routing and account numbers. Direct deposit is typically faster than a paper check.

A note on the tax year

Required documents can change from year to year as tax rules and forms are updated. The checklist above reflects common categories; the exact documents you need depend on your situation and the rules for the tax year being filed. Our full tax filing checklist covers these categories in more detail.

This article is general educational information, not tax advice for your specific situation. Confirm current-year requirements with our office or the IRS before relying on any of this information.