Are you ready to file your tax return? If not, now’s the time to start preparing.
We reached out to Amy Raven, Managing Partner and CPA with Sorge CPA and Business Advisors, SC, based in Madison, Wisconsin, for her expert tips on how to best prepare your taxes1.
What Documents Do I Need to Gather to File My Taxes?
The best way to get started is to gather the documentation and information you’ll need in order to file your taxes.
What you need will vary based on your individual situation. Being self-employed, a student, a homeowner, or having investment income can all impact the documents required for your tax filing.
Start by gathering documents that identify you and your dependents (like Social Security or tax ID numbers), records of all sources of income (W2s, K‑1 forms, rental income, retirement distributions, etc.), and documentation for deductions you plan to claim (1098 or other mortgage interest statements, charitable donation receipts, medical expenses, health insurance, childcare, and more).
The IRS provides this comprehensive list of documents you may need for tax preparation.
Raven also emphasizes the importance of providing your tax advisor with all documentation at once. “When we receive these documents piece by piece, it can create inefficiencies or errors in filing,” she says.
Should I Use a Tax Advisor to File My Taxes?
Whether to hire a tax advisor or file on your own depends on your unique situation. Many individuals with simple tax circumstances choose to file independently to save money.
However, the more complex your taxes, the more valuable a professional advisor becomes. If you are self-employed, own rental property, earn investment income, or have cryptocurrency transactions, a CPA or Enrolled Agent can help optimize your tax filing strategy.
Benefits of using a tax advisor include “experience, knowledge, consistency, clarity, advice, and strategy,” according to Raven.
“If a client values strategy, quality, and overall financial health, a professional tax advisor is ideal. For cost and time savings, self-preparation via tax software is an option,” she adds. Eligible taxpayers can also file for free using the IRS’s Free File program.
Not all accountants provide strategic advice. Some focus solely on completing tax returns, while others aim to enhance your financial wellness. The latter can help maximize your tax refunds and provide guidance on overall financial management.
What Should I Look for in a Tax Advisor?
When selecting a tax advisor, ask about credentials. Does the advisor hold a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or EA (Enrolled Agent) license? These require continuing education, keeping them up to date on the latest tax laws and best practices.
Also, evaluate their process for securely uploading your documents. A streamlined and secure system ensures confidentiality and efficiency.
Finally, consider whether you’re working with a solo advisor or a multi-person firm. “A team of CPAs and EAs brings diverse experience and can provide a more robust financial strategy,” says Raven, leading to more insightful and accurate tax filing.
How Will I Get My Tax Refund?
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive your tax refund. “Ensure your banking information is correct so your refund goes to the right account,” Raven notes.
You can also check your refund status using the IRS’s Where’s My Refund tool.
Refunds may also be issued by check if your bank account is not eligible or if deposit limits are reached. Ensure your account is in your name or jointly held with a spouse to avoid receiving a paper check.
What Do I Do if I Owe Taxes?
File your tax return by the April 15 deadline and pay as much as possible by then. You can pay federal taxes electronically here. State taxes are paid separately.
If you cannot pay in full, the IRS offers payment plan options to help you manage your balance.
What Else Should I Know About Filing Taxes?
Tax Laws and Limits Change Every Year
Tax brackets, deductions, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and credits may change annually. These updates can significantly affect your tax strategy, so work with your advisor to understand the implications.
For the latest tax updates, visit the IRS Topics in the News page.
Plan Ahead
Stay in regular contact with your tax advisor throughout the year. This helps them provide the best guidance for your financial health and ensures you are prepared for the next tax season.
Raven explains, “Tax professionals serve hundreds or thousands of clients in a short window, often putting their own self-care aside to ensure clients are served.”
“Building a relationship with your tax advisor throughout the year allows them to strategize effectively and optimize your financial health,” she adds. Integrating your tax advisor with your financial advisor can help create a comprehensive plan for your future.
Finally, Raven emphasizes the value of kindness and collaboration: “From January to April, tax professionals need patience and grace. Post-tax season, include them in your team of financial professionals to support your goals.”
What’s New for the 2026 Tax Filing Season
- IRS Filing Season Start: The IRS will begin accepting returns on January 26, 2026. The filing deadline remains April 15, 2026.
- Paper Refund Checks: The IRS is phasing out paper checks; most taxpayers will need direct deposit information to receive refunds.
- Free Filing Options: The IRS Direct File program will not be available this year. Eligible taxpayers can still file for free using IRS Free File or commercial tax software.
- Digital Asset Reporting: Income from cryptocurrency and other digital assets must still be reported, even if no 1099‑DA was received.
- Tax Law Updates: Certain deductions, credits, and forms have changed under new provisions enacted recently. Check with your tax advisor to see how these impact your return.
1Note: This interview with Amy Raven was conducted in 2025. While specific tax rules may change, her guidance on organizing documents, planning ahead, and working with a tax advisor remains relevant for the 2026 filing season.