Ryan Surace | Dec 22 2025 14:10
On the first day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
1. Gather All Your Tax Documents Early (and Know the Deadlines!): Start collecting W-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest statements, and receipts for deductible expenses as soon as they arrive. For the 2024 tax year, most W-2s and 1099s should be available by January 31, 2025. Certain 1099s (like 1099-B and 1099-S) are due by February 18, 2025. If you’re expecting a Schedule K-1 from a partnership or S corporation, these are due by March 17, 2025 (or September 15, 2025, if the entity files an extension). If you need a K-1 estimate, reach out to the issuer before the original due date.
On the second day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
2. Review Last Year’s Return: Looking over your previous return helps you remember what you needed and spot any changes in your financial life that could affect this year’s taxes.
On the third day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
3. Update Your Personal Information (and Tell Your CPA!): Make sure your address, marital status, and dependent information are current with your employer and financial institutions to avoid delays. Just as importantly, inform your CPA of any changes so your return is prepared accurately and on time.
On the fourth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
4. Keep Thorough Records All Year: Consistently organize and retain documentation for all income and deductions (i.e. charitable contributions) throughout the year. This habit makes tax filing easier, helps ensure no deductions are missed, and provides support in case of an audit.
On the fifth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
5. Communicate Major Life Event: Communicate and share documents related to major life events (like a move, new dependents, job changes, home sale) with your CPA. This helps your advisor provide more personalized planning and spot new opportunities.
On the sixth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
6. Use a Checklist or Organizer for Your Tax Documents: Start gathering and organizing all relevant tax documents early, using a checklist or organizer tailored to your situation. Reviewing last year’s return and updating your personal information can also help ensure a smooth process
On the seventh day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
7. Safeguard Your Tax Data: Use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and be wary of phishing scams. Protecting your information is more important than ever.
On the eighth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
8. Choose Direct Deposit for Your Refund: Opt for direct deposit, when possible, to receive your refund quickly and securely—no waiting for a paper check
On the ninth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
9. Set Up a Dedicated Folder for Tax Documents: Create a folder or envelope—physical or digital—and place all tax-related documents in it as soon as they arrive. This helps ensure nothing is overlooked and makes tax preparation more efficient.
On the tenth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
10. Complete a Pre-Organizer Questionnaire: Before meeting with your tax preparer, fill out a pre-organizer client questionnaire. This helps you gather all necessary documents and information in advance, making the process smoother for everyone.
On the eleventh day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
11. Schedule a Tax Planning Meeting: If you’ve had major life changes or have questions, meet with your tax advisor before things get busy. Proactive planning can help you avoid surprises.
On the twelfth day of tax season, my CPA said to me:
12. Stay Informed and Ask About OBBB Changes: Tax laws change every year, and the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) Act brought significant updates for 2025. Stay up to date and don’t hesitate to ask your CPA about how these changes might affect you.