Do you get a headache just thinking about tax season?  Even though it is only mid-January, tax season will soon be upon us.  Many people scramble at the last minute to pull together their paperwork and often file their tax return late.  So, this week’s boot camp organizing project is dedicated to minimizing that headache by preparing your tax records in advance.  Imagine having it all ready and in place for on-time and hassle-free tax filing and, hopefully, a refund too!

Dig up all of the receipts you might require for your various tax deductions.

Make a list of items you might be missing or have not yet received in the mail.  Perhaps, you have made charitable contributions that have not yet been acknowledged…etc.  Think back to last year’s filing and what you were required to submit to your accountant or what you needed for your own tax return preparation.

Categorize the records.  Income with income, expenses by deduction, etc.  If you file more than one return, take that into account and divide the paperwork accordingly.

Create an organized file for the records.  If you have a lot of documents and a complex tax return, you should consider designating an expanding file, which is easy to divide into categories.

Make an appointment with your accountant or purchase tax filing software now. While you might not be able to complete the tax filing process right away, as some tax forms will arrive later on, it will feel good to be prepared.

Create a 2012 tax file now.  That is what I do.  It is never too early for advance planning.  I label a folder with the tax year and begin to deposit the applicable paperwork there as soon it is received.

OK, this project is not nearly as involved as kitchen organizing, but the benefits of getting your tax filing stuff in order are huge.  Get it done now!

Previously on Order Matters’ Organizing Boot Camp:

Kitchen Organizing

Kitchen Organizing Continued: Fridges & Pantries

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