There is a lot of confusion about what you can and can't claim on your taxes.  This year we thought we would give you a head start and list some of the things you will need to bring with you to have your taxes prepared and some of the things that you can deduct (if you itemize or have a business).  Below we have broken things into four (4) categories to make the tax process a little easier for you!

Things you need to bring with you...

• W-2s - Bring all W-2s issued to you and your spouse, if filing a joint return.  This includes all wages, salaries, tips or other monies earned.  The BIGGEST question that we get asked each year is "can I use my last pay stub to file my taxes?".  The answer is not until AFTER February 1st.  The IRS does not allow the use of a pay stub until this date.  Yes, there are other tax preparers that are filing peoples taxes this way, but it is illegal and both the preparer and tax payer could face large fines and even jail time!
• 1099s - If you worked for someone and they did not withhold taxes on you, they will more than likely issue you a 1099.  This means that you were "contract labor" and are responsible for all taxes associated with this amount. 
• 1099Rs - This is a payment from a retirement fund.
• Interest earned on a savings account.
• Interest or dividends earned on stocks or bonds.
• Any amount you received last year as a refund.
• Distributions you received from an IRA.
• Social Security Benefits received.
• Unemployment Compensation you received.
• Any other income you received.
• Any money paid for care of your small children.