The 1040 Deadline Is Coming: How to Prepare for a Smooth Tax Filing
The deadline to file your 1040 tax return is approaching, and a little preparation now can make the entire process smoother, faster, and far less stressful. Gathering your documents early helps avoid last-minute scrambling and ensures nothing important is overlooked.
Download the Tax Prep Checklist
Not sure if you have everything? Click HERE to download the Tax Preparation Checklist that walks you through the most common documents and situations so nothing gets missed.
Here are some practical ways to get organized for tax season.
1. Set Aside Documents as They Arrive
As tax forms come in, place them in a designated folder (digital or physical). Be sure to collect income documents from employers, retirement accounts, banks, and investment providers, including:
W-2s
1099s (interest, dividends, contract income, retirement distributions, etc.)
Having everything in one place saves time and reduces errors later.
2. Account for All Income Sources
If your income is more complex, be sure to include documentation for all sources of income. This may include self-employment income, rental income, investment activity, or retirement distributions.
If you received a tax organizer from MH, it can serve as a helpful checklist while gathering your information. You may also find the Tax Preparation Guide useful; it outlines common income items and situations to consider.
3. Note Changes Since Last Year
Life changes can have a significant impact on your tax return. Make a note of anything that’s different from last year, such as:
A move or new address
Change in employment
Marriage or divorce
Dependents added or removed
New or closed bank, retirement, or investment accounts
Sharing these updates early helps ensure your return is prepared accurately.
4. Track Deductible and Credit-Related Expenses
If applicable, gather records for expenses that may qualify for deductions or credits, including:
Mortgage interest and property taxes
Charitable donations
Medical expenses
Education costs
Childcare expenses
Organized records can help maximize potential tax benefits.
5. Include Estimated Tax Payments
If you made estimated tax payments during the year, please include:
Payment dates
Payment amounts
Taxing jurisdictions (federal, state, or local)
This ensures those payments are properly credited on your return.
6. Prepare for Direct Deposit Refunds
The IRS is phasing out paper refund checks. When submitting your documents, please include a voided check or your bank routing and account numbers so direct deposit can be set up if you’re due a refund.
👉 Read more about the IRS ending paper checks HERE.
7. Need More Time to Get It Together? An Extension Is Okay
Life happens… and sometimes tax statements don’t arrive on time. If you know your tax documents won’t be ready and you’d like us to file an extension on your behalf, please let us know as soon as possible.
Filing an extension gives you additional time to gather information and allows us to prepare your return accurately, without the stress of rushing. Just keep in mind that an extension to file is not an extension to pay. If a payment may be due, we can help you plan accordingly.
Our goal is to make the tax filing process as smooth and straightforward as possible. If you need assistance, have questions, or would like to discuss next steps, we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to file my 1040 tax return?
Common documents include W-2s, 1099s, interest and investment statements, retirement income forms, and records for deductions or credits. Our Tax Prep Checklist can help you confirm what applies to your situation.
When is the deadline to file a 1040 return?
For most taxpayers, the deadline is April 15 unless you file for an extension.
Do I need direct deposit information for my tax refund?
Yes. The IRS is phasing out paper checks, so providing bank routing and account numbers helps ensure timely refunds.