Getting Tax-Ready | Documents Your Accountant Needs

Tax season is approaching, and like most business owners, you might be feeling that familiar anxiety about gathering everything your accountant needs. But here's the good news: with a little early preparation, it doesn't have to be that way. Let's break down exactly what you need and how to get organized—while there's still time to handle any surprises that pop up.

Read More: Document Organizations That Work

Why start now? January is typically the busiest time for accountants, and many banks and vendors slow down during the holidays, making it harder to get those missing documents. Plus, early birds often get better rates from their accountants. But most importantly, getting organized now gives you time to spot (and fix) any gaps in your records.

Essential Documents Checklist

Start With These (Most Important):

1. Bank statements for all accounts (Jan-Dec)
2. Credit card statements (all accounts)
3. Sales records and invoices by month
4. Business expense receipts

Then Add:

• Last year's tax return
• Business registration/license
• Contractor information (W-9s)
• Vehicle mileage logs
• Insurance documents
• New contracts from this year
• Equipment purchase records

Read More: Business Budget Planning Made Simple

Simple Organization System

Think of this as creating a road map for your accountant. The clearer the path, the easier their job—and the lower your bill! Here's how to organize everything:

Set Up Your Structure:

• Create a main "2024 Tax Documents" folder
• Make 12 monthly subfolders
• Within each month, separate:
  • Income documents
  • Expense receipts
  • Bank statements
  • Credit card statements

Digital Files Need Love Too:

• Use clear dating: "2024-12-31-Bank-Statement"
• Convert everything to PDF
• Keep backup copies
• Store originals safely

Common Questions Solved

"Help! I'm Missing Receipts!" Don't panic.

1. Search email (including spam)
2. Check online banking
3. Contact vendors
4. Look through phone photos
5. Document any gaps

"What Format Works Best?" Your accountant will thank you for:

• Organized PDF files
• Clear file names
• Monthly summaries
• Notes about changes
• Questions listed separately

Read More: Your Annual Financial Health Review Checklist

Ready for Stress-Free Tax Time?

Clean, organized records make tax time easier. We help small business owners:

1. Create systems that work
2. Get their transactions recorded properly
3. Stay organized all year
4. Work smoothly with their tax pros

📞 Call: (214) 306-7850 📧 Email: hello@mybizbookkeeper.com

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