ten things your tax clients need to hear jan. 2 | listicle

//www.g005e.com/category/checklist/listicle/by 卡塔尔世界杯常规比赛时间 research

everybody resolves to get organized at the start of a new year. january 2 is the day to tell tax clients what they need to do for a hassle-free tax return. here’s a list of 10 things to tell them.

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1. gather your documents

collect all tax-related documents, such as w-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest statements, charitable contribution receipts, and any other income or deduction records. (give them a complete list.) remind them where they can find these documents or when to expect them from employers, banks, etc.

2. add filing deadlines to calendars

list key filing deadlines, including the standard filing deadline and any relevant extension deadlines. you can also give them deadlines for sending you information and documents.

3. verify personal information

encourage clients to double-check their personal details – including social security numbers, addresses and dependent information – on all documents, as errors can delay processing.

4. track recent life changes

discuss how significant life changes like marriage, divorce, having a child, change in dependents, or moving can affect tax situations and deductions.

5. estimate quarterly taxes

for self-employed clients or those with significant non-wage income, review estimated tax payments and remind them that the fourth-quarter payment is due january 15.

6. maximize contributions

remind clients they can still contribute to iras, hsas and other accounts for the prior tax year up until april 15. tell them to record and document their contributions, ideally before they plan to file their return.

7. review deductions and credits

list deductions and credits they may qualify for, such as the child tax credit, earned income tax credit or education-related deductions. consider whether specific clients have special deductions and credits.

8. be aware of new tax laws

update clients on any changes in tax laws or irs regulations that could impact their filing this year. (update yourself, too!)

9. set up direct deposit

recommend clients provide direct deposit information for faster refunds if they’re expecting one.

10. avoid common mistakes

educate clients on common tax filing mistakes, such as math errors, missed deductions, or failure to sign and date forms. give them a list. this might be part of a tax-prep seminar.

taxpayers and tax preparers can both get stressed out at tax time. you can minimize the stress by helping clients stay in control.

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