What you need before you start (Master Checklist)
📋 Master Checklist
Essential Documents
- ✓ Government-issued ID and last year's return
- ✓ Employer income forms (T4/W-2)
- ✓ Self-employment summaries
- ✓ Investment slips
- ✓ Benefits statements
Supporting Materials
- ✓ Receipts for deductions/credits
- ✓ Direct deposit info for refunds
- ✓ Multi-factor authentication enabled
- ✓ Secure internet connection
Personal info & IDs
| Document | Why You Need It | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Previous Year's Return | AGI verification, carryovers | Your files or tax software |
| Government ID | Identity verification | Driver's license, passport |
| SSN/SIN | Tax ID matching | Social Security card, prior returns |
| Spouse/Dependents Info | Filing status, credits | SSN/SIN cards, birth certificates |
Income forms (employment, self-employment, investments)
Employment Income
- • W-2 (US): Wages, tips, taxes withheld
- • T4 (Canada): Employment income
- • P60 (UK): End of year certificate
- • 1099s: Contract/freelance work
- • Unemployment benefits: 1099-G, T4E
Investment Income
- • 1099-DIV: Dividends received
- • 1099-INT: Interest income
- • 1099-B: Stock/bond sales
- • T5 (Canada): Investment income
- • T3: Trust distributions
Self-Employment
- • 1099-NEC: Non-employee compensation
- • Business records: Income/expense summary
- • Receipts: Deductible expenses
- • Mileage logs: Business travel
- • Bank statements: Business account
Deductions & credits docs
Common Deductions & Credits
Education
- • Tuition statements (1098-T, T2202)
- • Student loan interest (1098-E)
- • Educational expenses receipts
Healthcare
- • Medical expense receipts
- • Health insurance premiums
- • Prescription receipts
Charitable Giving
- • Donation receipts
- • Non-cash donation records
- • Volunteer mileage logs
Homeownership
- • Mortgage interest (1098)
- • Property tax statements
- • PMI premium records
Banking details for refunds
Direct Deposit Setup
Required Information
- • Bank routing number
- • Account number
- • Account type (checking/savings)
- • Bank name and address
Where to Find It
- • Bottom of personal checks
- • Online banking portal
- • Bank statements
- • Call your bank directly
Choose the right online filing method
Free vs paid software
| Option | Best For | Features | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Free File | Simple returns, income limits | Basic forms, free e-file | Income caps, limited support |
| Free Tax Software | W-2 only, standard deduction | Import W-2, basic deductions | No complex situations |
| Paid Software | Self-employed, investments | All forms, audit support | $50-150+ cost |
| CPA/Preparer | Complex situations, high income | Expert guidance, planning | $200-500+ cost |
Security & data privacy features
🔒 Security Checklist
Must-Have Features
- ✓ 256-bit SSL encryption
- ✓ Multi-factor authentication
- ✓ Automatic logout
- ✓ Secure data centers
Red Flags to Avoid
- ✗ No encryption mentioned
- ✗ Suspicious pricing/offers
- ✗ Poor reviews/ratings
- ✗ No customer support
Step-by-step: Filing your return online
Create an account & import forms
Choose your software and create account
Use strong password and enable 2FA immediately
Import prior year return
Upload PDF or connect to last year's software
Connect to employers/financial institutions
Auto-import W-2s, 1099s, and investment forms
Manual entry for missing forms
Type in information from paper forms carefully
Enter income, deductions, credits
💡 Pro Tips
- • Double-check all numbers: Match exactly to your forms
- • Don't skip prompts: Software may find credits you missed
- • Save frequently: Don't lose your progress
- • Use help features: Most software has good guidance
- • Review unusual changes: Big differences from last year
Review, optimize, and e-file
Final Review Checklist
- □ Names and SSNs correct
- □ Filing status appropriate
- □ All income sources included
- □ Bank info for direct deposit
- □ Signature and date
- □ Print copy for records
Before You Submit
- • Check refund/owe amount makes sense
- • Review error messages carefully
- • Save electronic copy
- • Note confirmation number
- • Keep all supporting documents
Common mistakes to avoid
Typos in names/IDs or bank numbers: Can delay refunds or cause rejections
Missing forms (especially investment or gig income): Triggers notices and penalties
Ignoring software prompts for credits you qualify for: Leaves money on the table
Filing late or forgetting estimated taxes if self-employed: Results in penalties and interest
After you file: What happens next
Refund timelines, transcript access, amendments
| Timeline | What Happens | Your Action |
|---|---|---|
| 24-48 hours | Return accepted or rejected | Check email/software for status |
| 7-21 days | Refund processed (if direct deposit) | Monitor bank account |
| 4-6 weeks | Paper check arrives (if applicable) | Watch for mail |
| 3+ months | Account transcript available | Download for records |
Regional notes (US / Canada / UK)
🇺🇸 United States
- • e-File supported by IRS-authorized providers
- • Consider Free File if eligible
- • Due date: April 15 (usually)
- • Extensions available to October 15
🇨🇦 Canada
- • NETFILE-certified software
- • CRA My Account for slips
- • Due date: April 30
- • Self-employed: June 15
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- • HMRC Self Assessment online
- • Register for Government Gateway
- • Due date: January 31
- • Paper deadline: October 31
Need Help?
Talk to a tax pro about your specific situation.
Get matched to a vetted preparer in minutes →Disclaimer: This article is for general education only and not tax or legal advice. Tax rules change and vary by region—consult a professional about your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online tax filing safe?
Yes—use reputable software with encryption and multi-factor authentication. Stick to well-known providers and avoid suspicious offers.
How long do refunds take?
Refund timing varies by country and whether you use direct deposit or cheque. Direct deposit is typically 1-3 weeks, while paper checks take 4-6 weeks.
Can I start and finish later?
Yes—save progress and resume. Most online software automatically saves your work and lets you log back in to continue where you left off.
What if I made a mistake after filing?
You can file an amended return to correct errors. Small math mistakes are often corrected automatically by the tax authority.