What You Need to File Your Tax Return

Preparing your tax return is easy when you have the right documents ready. The checklist below helps ensure accuracy and avoids delays.

đź“„ Required Documents

Personal Information

  • Valid government-issued photo ID

  • Social Security card or SSN for you, your spouse, and dependents

  • Prior-year tax return (recommended, if available)

Income Documents

Provide all income received during the tax year, including:

  • W-2 forms (employment income)

  • 1099 forms (self-employment, gig work, interest, dividends, retirement, etc.)

  • Unemployment income statements

  • Social Security benefits statements

  • Other income documents, if applicable

Health Insurance (If Applicable)

  • Form 1095-A (Marketplace insurance only)

This form is required if you or a household member had Marketplace health insurance.

Credits & Deductions (If Applicable)

  • Childcare expenses

  • Education expenses

  • Charitable contributions

  • Medical expenses

  • Mortgage interest and property tax statements

Self-Employed & Small Business (If Applicable)

  • Income records (1099s or sales summaries)

  • Business expense records

  • Mileage logs (if applicable)

  • Prior-year business tax returns (recommended)

📤 How to Upload Documents for Accuracy

To ensure your tax return is prepared accurately and efficiently, please follow these upload guidelines:

âś” Use Clear Images or PDFs

  • Take photos in good lighting

  • Make sure all four corners of the document are visible

  • Avoid blurry or cropped images

âś” Upload Complete Documents

  • Include all pages of multi-page documents

  • Upload every W-2 and 1099 you received

âś” Do Not Edit or Alter Documents

  • Do not mark up, cross out, or modify tax forms

  • Upload original documents as received

âś” Name Files Clearly (If Uploading Multiple Files)

Examples:

  • W2_EmployerName.pdf

  • 1099NEC_BusinessName.pdf

âś” Secure Upload Only

Upload documents through IBA Tax Professionals’ secure portal or intake form.
Please do not email sensitive documents unless instructed.

⏱ What Happens After You Submit Your Documents?

  • Your documents are received and reviewed within 24–48 business hours

  • If any information is missing or unclear, we will contact you

  • Tax preparation begins once all required documents are received

  • You will review and approve your return before it is filed

🛡 Your Privacy & Security

IBA Tax Professionals uses secure, IRS-compliant systems to protect your personal and financial information.

đź’¬ Need Help?

Not sure what documents apply to your situation?
đź“… Schedule a consultation with IBA Tax Professionals