Get Ready for Tax Time

January 27, 2025
An alarm clock is sitting on a desk next to a calculator and a sticky note that says

According to one survey, 42% of Americans would rather go to the dentist than file their taxes.1


Tax season might not be your favorite time of the year, but a little preparation can help make the tax filing process as smooth and painless as possible.



Review last year's tax return

Not everything will stay the same, but checking last year's return can reveal information you might need this year. If you use an accountant or professional tax preparer, you may receive a checklist or questionnaire to help you get organized.



Think about recent life events

During 2024, did you tie (or untie) the knot, grow your family, buy or sell a home, start a job, send a child to college, retire, receive an inheritance, or have high health-care costs? These are just some of the common events that might affect your tax return, including the filing status you choose, the amount of income or expenses you have, or tax deductions and credits you might be entitled to.



Gather supporting documents

You'll automatically receive some tax documents and statements electronically or by mail in January or February. You may need to locate others yourself.


Depending on your situation and whether you itemize deductions or take the standard deduction, supporting documents may include:

  • W-2 forms showing wages from your employers
  • 1099 forms that report other types of income you received, including interest from banks and brokers, dividends and distributions, retirement plan or health savings account (HSA) distributions, Social Security benefits, and self-employment income
  • 1098 forms for mortgage interest, property taxes, or education-related payments
  • Receipts or statements for child-care or medical costs
  • Receipts for donations to charity


Collect supporting documents in one place, and make a list of information you're missing so that you can check it off the list once you have it.



Consider making IRA or HSA contributions

If you're eligible, you can contribute to a traditional IRA (deductible or not), Roth IRA, or an HSA for 2024 up until the tax filing deadline, as long as you haven't already reached the contribution limit for the year.



(1) Chamber of Commerce, 2024

An alarm clock with the text April 15, 2025, is the tax filing deadline for most taxpayers next to it.

All Securities Through Money Concepts Capital Corp., Member FINRA / SIPC

11440 North Jog Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 Phone: 561.472.2000

Copyright 2010 Money Concepts International Inc.

Investments are not FDIC or NCUA Insured

May Lose Value - No Bank or Credit Union Guarantee

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of MI. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2020.

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