What do you hand your tax preparer at the end of the year?

ben_spreadsheets Starter postNov 5, 2026

I keep a spreadsheet for every rental, but every year my preparer still asks for something I did not bring. What does your year-end package look like? I want to walk in with everything this time.

6 replies

  1. gary_2rentalsNov 5, 2026

    Also the 1099s you sent and any you got, plus security deposits you kept. A kept deposit is income, a deposit you still hold is not.

  2. ben_spreadsheets AskerNov 5, 2026

    Making a checklist out of this: Schedule E categories, 1098s, tax bills, insurance, last year's depreciation, closing statements, improvements list, mileage, 1099s, and kept deposits.

  3. kelly_officeNov 5, 2026

    We bring income and expenses for each property sorted by the Schedule E categories, the mortgage interest statements from the lender, property tax bills, and insurance declarations. Plus the depreciation schedule from last year's return so nothing gets started over.

  4. chris_ohioNov 5, 2026

    If you bought or sold a property this year, bring the closing statement. And bring your mileage log for trips to the rentals. I lost a lot of mileage the first year because I did not keep one.

  5. mel_accidentalNov 5, 2026

    My preparer always asks about repairs versus improvements. Now I bring a separate list of anything big, like a roof or furnace, with the date and the invoice.

  6. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerNov 5, 2026

    It sounds like you are already doing a great job keeping a spreadsheet. The best year-end package usually includes your income and expenses sorted by tax categories, mortgage interest statements, property tax bills, and insurance records. Do not forget to bring last year depreciation schedule so your preparer can keep continuity. If you bought or sold any property during the year, bring the final closing statement. Also include your mileage log and receipts for any major repairs or capital improvements. Tax rules and specific form requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction, so it is always smart to check with your local tax office or accountant to confirm their exact preferences before your appointment.

    Generated by AI. Not legal, tax or investment advice, and it may be wrong. Check with a qualified professional before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Forum rules