KEEPING GOOD RECORDS CAN PAY DIVIDENDS AT TAX TIME     
by Cheryl Wilcox, District Manager H&R BLOCK

Taxpayers can save time and money by keeping track throughout the year of the information they will need when filing their tax return. 

Although it takes time to set up a record-keeping system, it can save time in the long run especially when taxpayers have waited to the last minute to file. Not only will it save time, but a thorough search through a check register, receipts, credit-card statements and other documents can save money by ensuring that you pay the lowest possible amount of tax.

The following checklist includes some of the most common items taxpayers need to substantiate income, deductions and credits:  

1.            Statements of all income received during the year: W-2s; unemployment compensation; income from jury duty, hobbies, casual labor: the sale of stock or other property.

2.         Money received from rents, royalties, alimony, pensions, prizes and tips.

3.         Interest earned on savings accounts and other investments.

4.         Dividends received from mutual funds and corporate securities.

5.                  Records of items eligible for deductions:

Ø      Medical insurance premiums and other medical and dental expenses

Ø      Interest paid on your home mortgage

Ø      Contributions to charities

Ø      Contributions to an IRA or Keogh plan

Ø      Real estate and personal property taxes

Ø      Union or professional dues

Ø      Employment agency fees

Ø      Educational expenses incurred to improve your job skills

Ø      Tax preparation fees

Ø      Investment expenses.

6.         Amounts paid for childcare while the taxpayer works or goes to school, plus the name,      address and tax identification number of the child-care provider.

7.        Job-related moving expenses.

8.        Education expenses and statements for student loan interest.

Cheryl Wilcox is District Manager of Lee County H&R BLOCK offices.  She is currently seeking individuals who would like to learn more about tax preparation by taking the H&R BLOCK tax school.  Once completed with a satisfactory grade, you may qualify to prepare returns for H&R Block either part time or full time during tax season, or as a full time career choice with much advancement possibility.  For more information, click here   or call 239-278-4300.