7 Tax Tips to Know Before You File

Ah, tax season—the most exciting time of the year said no one ever. But whether you’re dreading it, procrastinating, or just trying to figure out where your W-2 even is, a little prep goes a long way. Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. In fact, with the right info up front, it can be… dare we say… smooth?

Before you file, there are some key things you’ll want to know—about documents, deductions, deadlines, and avoiding mistakes that could cost you money. Let’s break it down so you can file with confidence (and maybe even get a bigger refund).

1. Know Your Filing Deadline

For most people, Tax Day in 2025 falls on Tuesday, April 15. If you’re self-employed or expecting a complicated return, it’s smart to start early. Waiting until the last minute increases the chance of errors, missing forms, or—worst case—having to file an extension.

Speaking of extensions: you can request one using IRS Form 4868, which gives you until October 15 to file—but not to pay. Any taxes owed are still due by the April deadline. Otherwise, you may face interest or penalties.

Keep an eye out for changes based on your location or natural disaster declarations—some states or regions may get automatic deadline extensions from the IRS.

2. Gather Your Documents First

Before you even open TurboTax or book that appointment with your tax pro, get your documents in order. Here’s a checklist of the basics you’ll likely need:

• W-2 forms from employers
• 1099 forms for freelance, gig, or contract work (1099-NEC, 1099-K, 1099-MISC, etc.)
• 1098 forms for mortgage interest or student loan interest
• 1095-A for health insurance through the marketplace
• Bank or brokerage statements for dividends, interest, or capital gains
• Receipts and records for tax-deductible expenses (charitable donations, education, home office, etc.)
• Last year’s tax return for reference

If you’re self-employed or run a side hustle, track down income records, business expenses, and mileage logs. The more organized you are, the faster your return gets done—and the less likely you are to leave money on the table.

3. Understand Your Filing Status

Your filing status affects your tax rate, standard deduction, and eligibility for certain credits. If you’re unsure, here’s a quick breakdown:

Single	You’re unmarried and not a head of household.
Married Filing Jointly	Typically gives the best tax benefits if you’re married.
Married Filing Separately	Can be useful in some cases, but often reduces credit eligibility.
Head of Household	You’re unmarried, pay more than half of household expenses, and have a dependent.
Qualifying Widow(er)	If your spouse passed in the last two years and you have dependents.

Choosing the right one can impact your refund (or bill) significantly, so double-check before you file.

4. Look for Deductions and Credits That Apply

Deductions reduce your taxable income, while credits directly reduce the taxes you owe. Knowing what you qualify for can mean the difference between a tax bill and a refund. Here are a few common ones:

Deductions

• Standard deduction ($14,600 for single filers in 2024, $29,200 for married filing jointly)
• Student loan interest
• IRA contributions
• Medical expenses (if itemizing)
• Home office expenses (for self-employed only)

Credits

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
• Child Tax Credit
• Saver’s Credit (for retirement contributions)
• American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning Credit (for education)
• Clean vehicle tax credits (for EVs)

Don’t assume you make too much—or too little—to qualify. Use an eligibility tool (like the IRS Credit & Deduction Finder) or consult a pro to be sure.

5. Decide on DIY or Hiring a Pro

If your tax situation is simple—just a W-2 and a standard deduction—filing with free software (like Cash App Taxes, FreeTaxUSA, or Credit Karma) might be all you need. The IRS also offers a Free File program for those who qualify based on income.

But if you’re self-employed, own a home, have investments, or are dealing with tax debt or errors from past years? Consider a tax pro. They can help you optimize deductions, avoid audits, and even help with tax planning for the future—not just this year’s filing.

Bonus tip: Many accountants get booked fast during peak season, so don’t wait until April to start calling around.

6. Watch Out for Common Mistakes

Even little errors can slow your refund—or trigger a dreaded letter from the IRS. Double-check these common pitfalls before you click “submit”:

• Misspelled names or incorrect Social Security numbers
• Forgetting to report all income (especially 1099s)
• Math errors (especially if filing by hand)
• Choosing the wrong filing status
• Not signing the return (yes, it happens)
• Using the wrong direct deposit info
• Filing late without requesting an extension

Tax software usually catches these, but it’s worth reviewing everything line by line. One last careful read-through can save you weeks of frustration.

7. Max Out Retirement Contributions Before You File

Want to reduce your taxable income and grow your future nest egg? You can still contribute to a traditional IRA or SEP IRA for the previous tax year—right up until the filing deadline.

That means if you’re filing in April 2024 for tax year 2023, you can still make contributions through April 15 and claim them on that return. It’s one of the few tax-saving moves you can make after the year ends.

If you’re self-employed, contributing to a SEP IRA can be a game-changer. Not only does it reduce your tax bill, but it helps you build wealth while you work for yourself.

File Smart, Not Frantic

Taxes don’t have to be terrifying. With a little planning, a few hours of paperwork, and maybe a coffee or two, you can knock out your return, avoid costly mistakes, and maybe even score a refund that funds your next goal.

So breathe. Gather your documents. Double-check the deadline. And file with confidence—because you’re more ready than you think.