What Forms and Documents Do You Need to File Your Taxes?

Tax season is here, and many taxpayers are still waiting on important forms before they can file their returns. Here’s a breakdown of the forms you need to wait for and those you don’t—so you can be fully prepared when filing time arrives!

📄 Forms You Need to Wait For

These forms must be issued by employers, financial institutions, or other third parties before you can file:

1. W-2:
   • For employees to report wages, salaries, and taxes withheld.
   • Must be mailed to you by January 31st.
2. 1099-NEC:
   • For reporting income earned as an independent contractor or freelancer.
   • Must be mailed by January 31st.
3. 1099-MISC:
   • For reporting other types of income (rent, prizes, etc.).
   • Must be mailed by January 31st.
4. 1099-DIV:
   • For dividends and distributions from investments.
   • Must be mailed by February 15th.
5. 1099-INT:
   • For reporting interest income from banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions.
   • Must be mailed by February 15th.
6. 1095-A/B/C (Health Insurance Forms):
   • To report your health insurance coverage (if applicable).
   • These must be provided by your insurance company, and the deadlines vary, but typically January 31st.
7. Schedule K-1:
   • For income from partnerships, S-corporations, or estates and trusts.
   • Must be mailed by March 15th.

📄 Forms You Don’t Need to Wait For

You can file your taxes even if you don’t have these documents (though they can help maximize your refund):

1. Previous Year’s Tax Return:
   • Not a form you’ll receive, but you’ll need a copy of last year’s tax return for reference, especially if you’re claiming carryovers or need information for deductions.
2. Bank Statements/Investment Statements:
   • Gather these for reporting interest, dividends, or capital gains.
3. Receipts for Deductions:
   • Keep receipts for deductions like charitable donations, business expenses, medical expenses, etc.
4. 1098-T (Tuition Payments):
   • If you or a dependent is attending college, but you don’t need to wait for this form—it can be obtained directly from your school.
5. 1098-E (Student Loan Interest):
   • For reporting student loan interest payments, available from your loan servicer.
6. Personal Identification Information:
   • Social Security numbers for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents.
   • Bank account information (for direct deposit).

📌 Key Dates to Remember

• January 31st: Deadline for most W-2s and 1099s to be sent out by employers and payers.
• If you don’t receive a form by early February, reach out to the issuer or check your online accounts for digital copies.

💡 Tips for Filing While Waiting:

• Don’t Panic: If you’re still waiting for forms, remember you can file as soon as everything arrives. You don’t need to wait for all forms to file your taxes, but be sure to have all critical forms like your W-2 and 1099s.
• Organize: Start gathering forms you don’t have to wait for now—bank statements, mortgage interest, receipts for deductions, etc.
• Check Your Address: Ensure your employer or other payers have your current address to avoid delays in receiving forms.

Are you still waiting for any forms, or are you ready to file? Let us know in the comments! 👇