Tax season is here again and it's time to get your paperwork in order.  Before your meeting, take some time to organize your tax related documents.

• Keep your tax documents in one folder so it will be easy to access when it is time to meet with your tax preparer.
• If you own a business and deduct expenses, consider using an expandable folder with separate pockets to organize the documents that support your income and expenses. 
• Take statements out of the original mailing envelopes.
• Consider using the tax organizer if one is provided to you.
• If you donate items to a charity and the receipt is blank, get a signature.  Then fill out the receipt and include the following:
• a list of the items donated,
• the date of the donation,
• the value of the goods (some charities, such as Goodwill, provide a guide to valuing donated goods.  A guide is also provided with our tax organizer.)
• If you have investment sales to report, please obtain the realized gain and loss reports from your financial advisor or broker.
• Include closing statements and mortgage documents if you sold or purchased a home.
• If you are submitting receipts for non-reimbursed medical expenses and copayments, please summarize them and include a total amount.