Calling all procrastinators: April 15 is Tax Day! I actually love this day now that I get a tax refund every year. I used to dread Tax Day. One year I actually had to drive to the post office to make sure it would be postmarked April 15. Now, I’m in my accountant’s office the first week of February eager to collect my return.

So, for all of you procrastinators, I’ve made you a list to get you going. As a disclaimer, I must say that because I am not a tax expert, I realize that not of all of these items I list may not apply to everyone and not all items may be on this list. Please consult a professional if you have questions.

Question: Do you save or spend your tax return?

Checklist for Taxes

ü  1099s and W2s

ü  Interest loans statements

ü  Mileage (You can also include any mileage that you do for charity/volunteer work)

ü  Property tax

ü  HOA fees

ü  Homeowners/renters insurance

ü  Mortgage interest

ü  Student loan interest

ü  Charitable donations – monetary or supplies

 

If you own your own home business or work from home you may be able to deduct these items:

ü  Business supplies (business cards, paper, equipment, tables, desks, etc.)

ü  Gifts (Items you buy for clients)

ü  Business trips

ü  Business meals (You’re allowed a certain amount for each meal while you are on a trip, and you can also count meals you have with clients and potential clients)

ü  Mileage (You can also include any mileage that you do for charity/volunteer work)

ü  Postage (stamps, shipping packages, etc.)

ü  Membership fees

ü  Tax preparation fees and bookkeeping fees

ü  Vehicle registration fees

ü  Union dues

ü  Home office space expenses (that percentage of your home that is dedicated to your office)

ü  Home phone

ü  Cell phone (that percentage of your calls that are business related)

ü  Internet

ü  Cable

ü  Water/sewer/trash bills to the city