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A Simple Tax Preparation Checklist to Make Filing Easier

Joe Jacobs
Joe JacobsFeb 13, 2025
A Simple Tax Preparation Checklist to Make Filing Easier

5 Things to Consider During Tax Time

1. Maximize Retirement Contributions Before the Deadline

Did you know that you can still make IRA contributions for 2024 until April 15, 2025?

  • Traditional IRA – Contributions may be tax-deductible, reducing your taxable income for 2024 (eligibility depends on income).
  • Roth IRA – While contributions aren’t deductible, your funds grow tax-free, and withdrawals in retirement (after age 59½) are also tax-free.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) – If you have a high-deductible health plan, you may be able to reduce your taxable income by contributing to an HSA before the deadline.

💡 Pro Tip: A self-directed IRA allows you to invest in real estate, digital currency, and other assets beyond the stock market, offering more diversification in a tax-advantaged way.

2. Explore Roth IRA Opportunities

If you haven’t maxed out your Roth IRA contributions for 2024, you can still do so before the April 15, 2025 deadline. Even if you open a Roth IRA in 2025, the contribution will count for the 2024 tax year.

A Roth IRA could be a great option if:

✔️ You expect higher income in retirement and want tax-free withdrawals.

✔️ You exceed the income limits for a Traditional IRA deduction and need a tax-free growth alternative.

✔️ You want the flexibility to withdraw contributions tax-free at any time.

Thinking long term? A self-directed Roth IRA lets you invest in alternative assets like real estate or precious metals in a tax-free environment.

3. Take Advantage of Tax-Advantaged Savings Accounts

If you didn’t save as much as you hoped last year, it’s not too late! You can still contribute for 2024 to:

IRA (Traditional or Roth) – Grow your retirement savings while potentially reducing taxable income.

HSA (Health Savings Account) – If eligible, use tax-free savings for medical expenses.

Coverdell Education Savings Account (CESA) – A great way to set aside money for your child’s education expenses with tax-free growth.

4. Know Your Contribution Limits

The IRS sets annual limits on tax-advantaged accounts. For 2024:

  • IRA (Traditional or Roth) – $6,500 ($7,500 if you’re 50 or older).
  • HSA – $3,850 for individuals, $7,750 for families.

💡 Reminder: These limits apply across all accounts of the same type. If you have multiple IRAs, the total contributions across all accounts cannot exceed the limit.

5. Know the 2024 Federal Income Tax Brackets

Understanding the 2024 Federal Income Tax Brackets can help you plan effectively and potentially reduce your tax liability. Here's a breakdown of the tax rates for different filing statuses:

Single Filers:

  • 10%: Up to $11,600
  • 12%: $11,601 to $47,150
  • 22%: $47,151 to $100,525
  • 24%: $100,526 to $191,950
  • 32%: $191,951 to $243,725
  • 35%: $243,726 to $609,350
  • 37%: Over $609,350

Married Filing Jointly:

  • 10%: Up to $23,200
  • 12%: $23,201 to $94,300
  • 22%: $94,301 to $201,050
  • 24%: $201,051 to $383,900
  • 32%: $383,901 to $487,450
  • 35%: $487,451 to $731,200
  • 37%: Over $731,200

Married Filing Separately:

  • 10%: Up to $11,600
  • 12%: $11,601 to $47,150
  • 22%: $47,151 to $100,525
  • 24%: $100,526 to $191,950
  • 32%: $191,951 to $243,725
  • 35%: $243,726 to $365,600
  • 37%: Over $365,600

Head of Household:

  • 10%: Up to $16,550
  • 12%: $16,551 to $63,100
  • 22%: $63,101 to $100,500
  • 24%: $100,501 to $191,950
  • 32%: $191,951 to $243,700
  • 35%: $243,701 to $609,350
  • 37%: Over $609,350

💡 These brackets apply for the 2024 tax year, with returns due in April 2025. Knowing your tax bracket can help you make informed decisions about deductions, contributions, and other tax strategies.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the IRS guidelines.

6. Get Organized Before You File

Having the right documents ready will make tax time smoother and faster. Here’s a basic checklist of what you might need:

Personal Information

📌 Social Security Number (for you and your dependents)

📌 Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

📌 Last Year’s Tax Return (not required, but helpful for comparison)

📌 Bank Account & Routing Number (for direct deposit of refunds)

Income Information

📌 W-2 Forms – From all employers

📌 1099 Forms – If you earned income from freelance, contract work, investments, or other sources

📌 Interest & Dividend Statements – From banks and financial institutions

📌 Rental Income Records – If applicable

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead This Tax Season

Taxes can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can make the process stress-free and efficient. Whether you’re maximizing deductions, organizing your documents, or contributing to retirement accounts, a proactive approach can help you save money and file with confidence.

💡 Need help? If you’re unsure about your specific tax situation, consider working with a tax professional or financial advisor to ensure you’re making the most of your tax return.