Plan Tax Filing
Complete step-by-step checklist to plan tax filing covering confirm tax deadlines and identify eligible tax breaks, and essential action items.
Confirm tax deadlines
Mark standard and extended filing deadlines on your calendar
Identify eligible tax breaks
Research deductions/credits (e.g., student loan, home office)
Select tax filing method
Decide on tax software (TurboTax, FreeTaxUSA) or an accountant
Block out filing time
Schedule a weekend to work on your tax return without rush
Estimate tax liability
Run preliminary numbers to check if you owe money or get refund
Check retirement tax options
Confirm if adding to IRA before deadline lowers tax bill
Review state tax obligations
Check if you need to file separate state or local city returns
Confirm direct deposit details
Verify bank details are correct for faster refund transfers
Research HSA contribution limits
Verify if health savings accounts can lower taxable totals
Review changes in tax codes
Check for new standard deduction rates or credit limits
Verify capital gains offsets
Check if stock losses can write off taxable capital gains
Calculate self-employment tax rates
Determine tax bracket for side hustle freelance income
Verify child care tax credits
Compile daycare tuition expenses receipts for tax filings
Verify clean PDF output format
Export the tax return drafts to PDF before final submission
Check estimated tax payment deadlines
Note quarterly payment dates if you run freelance business
Log tax refund direct deposits
Track IRS timeline logs to confirm refund clearing status