One of the simplest ways to make tax season less stressful is to gather your documents before you sit down to prepare your return. This checklist covers the documents most commonly relevant to Arizona individuals and families. Not every item applies to every person — a good preparer will tell you what is relevant to your specific situation.
Income Documents
- W-2 forms from each employer
- 1099-NEC for nonemployee compensation (contract work)
- 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income
- 1099-INT and 1099-DIV for interest and dividends
- 1099-R for pensions, annuities, and retirement plan distributions
- 1099-K for payment card and third-party network transactions
- 1099-G for unemployment compensation or state tax refunds
- 1099-S for proceeds from real estate transactions
- SSA-1099 for Social Security benefits
- Records of any cash or other income not reported on a form
Identification and Dependent Information
- Government-issued identification for you and your spouse
- Social Security numbers or ITINs for you, your spouse, and all dependents
- Dates of birth for everyone listed on the return
- Childcare provider name, address, and tax ID, plus amounts paid
- Information for any dependents who lived with you part of the year
Security reminder
Never send Social Security numbers, bank credentials, or sensitive tax documents through a general contact form or ordinary email. Use an approved secure document process when one is provided.
Deduction and Credit Documentation
- Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098)
- Property tax records
- Charitable contribution receipts (cash and noncash)
- Medical and dental expense records (if you may itemize)
- Education expenses (Form 1098-T, student loan interest)
- Child and dependent care expenses
- Adoption-related expenses, if applicable
- Energy-efficient home improvement records, if applicable
Healthcare Forms
- Form 1095-A (Marketplace coverage) — required if you had Marketplace insurance
- Form 1095-B or 1095-C (employer or provider coverage) — keep for your records
- Records of healthcare coverage months for each household member
If you had Marketplace coverage, Form 1095-A is essential because it feeds the premium tax credit calculation. Reconciling this form incorrectly is a common source of return errors.
Self-Employment and Business Records
If you are self-employed or run a small business, also gather:
- Records of all business income by source
- Records of all business expenses, categorized
- Mileage logs for business vehicle use
- Home office measurements and expense records
- Asset purchase records for depreciation (equipment, vehicles)
- Estimated tax payment confirmations
Prior-Year Return
If available, bring a copy of your prior-year tax return. It provides a helpful baseline — showing what was reported last year, what carryovers exist, and what life changes may affect this year's return. A prior-year return is especially useful if you are working with a new preparer for the first time.
Arizona-Specific Items
Arizona residents should also be aware of state-specific credits and subtractions, which change over time. Confirm current Arizona rules with the Arizona Department of Revenue. If you had income in or moved from another state, you may also need documents related to that state's filing.
Organize Before You Meet
Organizing documents before your consultation saves time and helps your preparer focus on your actual situation rather than sorting paperwork. A simple folder system — income, deductions, healthcare, business — makes a noticeable difference.
Rachelle's Tax Service helps Arizona families and families across all 50 states prepare organized, careful returns. If you would like help thinking through your documents, request a free consultation.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Tax rules change and outcomes depend on your individual facts. Always confirm current figures and rules with the IRS or Arizona Department of Revenue, and consider working with a qualified preparer for your situation.
