Tax Season Preparation

Tax season is much calmer when you prepare early. This routine walks you through collecting income documents, gathering deductible expenses and organising statements so you or your accountant can file without a scramble.

When to use this routine

Use this routine once a year, ideally a couple of months before your tax deadline so there is time to chase missing documents.

Steps in this routine

1. 1.

   Collect income documents

   Gather payslips, employer summaries and records for any freelance or rental income into one place.

2. 2.

   Gather deductible expenses

   Collect receipts and records for expenses you can claim, or export a summary from your tracking tool.

3. 3.

   Download bank and card statements

   Download statements for accounts that relate to your tax position so you can double-check figures if needed.

4. 4.

   Save receipts and evidence

   Scan or photograph paper receipts and store them with clear file names alongside your other tax documents.

5. 5.

   Prepare questions for your accountant

   Note changes this year and any questions you want to ask a professional so your meeting or handover is focused.

6. 6.

   Set a filing date before the deadline

   Choose a personal filing date a few weeks before the official deadline and add it to your calendar.

Tips for running this routine

• Create a folder for the current tax year and drop documents into it as they arrive.
• Label files with clear names so they are easy to search later.
• If you are self-employed, pair this with a lighter monthly money routine so year end is easier.

FAQ