One of the most common questions we get every year is:
“What documents do I really need to do my taxes?”
To help you avoid stress, delays, and mistakes, here’s a clear and honest checklist of the actual documents required to file your personal and business tax return in the U.S.
Documents for Personal Taxes
Make sure you have these ready:
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Social Security Number or ITIN (for you, your spouse, and dependents)
- W-2 forms (if you’re an employee)
- 1099 forms (if you’re a contractor, freelancer, or self-employed)
- Last year’s tax return (recommended, not mandatory)
- Bank account information (routing & account number – IRS no longer issues refund checks)
- Documents for dependents (school records, childcare expenses, etc.)
- Health insurance forms (if applicable)
Documents for Business Taxes
If you own a business or are self-employed, you’ll also need:
- Business EIN (or SSN if you file as sole proprietor)
- Business income records (1099s received, invoices, sales reports)
- Business expenses (rent, utilities, supplies, software, mileage, insurance, etc.)
- Bank statements (business and personal, if mixed)
- Payroll records (if you have employees)
- Previous year business tax return
- LLC, Corporation, or Partnership documents (if applicable)
Why organizing your documents early matters
✔ Faster filing
✔ Fewer errors
✔ No last-minute stress
✔ Better advice tailored to your situation
Every case is different, and missing documents can delay your refund or create issues with the IRS.
Need help reviewing your documents?
📍 At Charlotte Multiservice, we offer FREE consultations to review your case and guide you step by step — whether it’s personal taxes, business taxes, or both.
👉 Contact us today and let’s get your taxes done right, from the start +1 (704) 562-5816
