Resources & Info
We’ve gathered resources to help you prepare for tax season.
What to Bring
Income:
- Wage Statements/Form W-2
- Self-Employment Business Income & Expenses/1099-MISC
- Commissions Received/Paid
- Pension, Retirement Income/1099-R
- Unemployment Income/1099-G
- Canceled Debt Amount/1099-C
- Social Security Income/SSA-1099
- IRA Contributions
- Statements on the Sales of Stocks or Bonds/1099-B
- Interest & Dividend Income/1099-INT/1099-DIV
- Lottery or Gambling Winnings/Losses
- State Refund Amount/1099-G
- Income & Expenses from Rentals
- Alimony Paid or Received
Deductions:
- Medical & Dental Expenses
- Real Estate & Personal Property Taxes
- State or Local Taxes Paid
- Estimated Taxes or Foreign Taxes Paid
- Cash & Non-Cash Charitable Donations
- Mortgage or Home Equity Loan Interest Paid/1098
- Unreimbursed Employment-Related Expenses
- Job-Related Educational Expenses
- Educator Expenses
- Tuition & Education Fees/1098-T
- Student Loan Interest/1098-E
- Casualty or Theft Losses
Miscellaneous:
- Copy of Last Year’s Federal & State Tax Returns
- Record of Purchase or Sale of Residence
- Child Care Expenses & Provider Information
- Social Security Card(s)
- Driver’s License(s) or Picture ID Cards
- Dependents’ Social Security Numbers & Dates of Birth
IRS Website
The IRS’s official website allows you to check the status of your refund, whether you’ve worked with us or filed your taxes elsewhere. Check your refund status by clicking on the link “Where’s My Refund.”
FTB Website
The official website of the Franchise Tax Board lets you check the status of your state refund. Have you received your IRS check or deposit, but there is no sign of your state check yet? Click on the link “Check your refund status.”
CTEC Website
See if your tax preparer is CTEC-certified through the verification option on their website. You can identify your tax preparer by using their last name, first name, city, and zip code. Visit their website for more information about the California Tax Education Council.
Tax Filing Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I get a copy of a prior tax return and W-2?
A: As long as you filed your tax return with the IRS, you can request a photocopy or computer transcript of the information on your filed return at no charge. If you need an actual copy of the return or W-2, you will need to complete Form 4506 and pay a fee for the return and related information like your W-2.
Q: How do I get my Form W-2?
A: Your employer is required to provide your completed W-2 showing your compensation and tax withholding amounts for the calendar year by January 31. If you do not receive it, contact your employer. Provide your tax specialist with your last pay stub until your W-2 is received.
Q: How quickly can I get my refund?
A: WTS electronically files (e-files) your return with one of the IRS Direct Deposit Options which is usually received within about three weeks from e-file acceptance. If you prefer that they send a check, it could take up to six weeks.
Q: How do I change the amount withheld from my check for taxes?
A: Use a Form W-4, Employees’ WithholA: Use a Form W-4, Employees’ Withholding Allowance Certificate that you may request from your employer.ding Allowance Certificate that you may request from your employer.
Q: What happens if I get a tax notice and it is after April 15?
A: Remember, the accurate preparation of your tax return is your responsibility as the taxpayer. You will have the opportunity to review your tax return before it is filed with the federal and state governments. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, please notify us immediately so we can make the necessary corrections.
If you get a tax notice from any tax agency regarding your return, we are available year-round to answer your questions and handle your tax problems. Call us, then send us a copy of the notice via fax, mail, or email.
If you get a tax notice from any tax agency regarding your return, we are available year-round to answer your questions and handle your tax problems. Call us, then send us a copy of the notice via fax, mail, or email.
Foreign Bank & Financial Accounts (FBAR)
Do you have a financial interest in or signature authority over a foreign financial account, including a bank account, brokerage account, mutual fund, trust, or another type of foreign financial account, exceeding certain thresholds? If so, the Bank Secrecy Act may require you to report the account yearly to the Department of Treasury by electronically filing a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).
To learn more about filing taxes, don’t hesitate to contact us.