Back to Cookbook

Tax Filing Prep Checklist

Stop tax season from becoming a fire drill

A tailored documents list, question set, and recordkeeping system so you file accurately, claim what you're owed, and never scramble at the deadline again.

House RecipePersonal3 min

INGREDIENTS

📄Google Docs

PROMPT

Create a skill called "Tax Filing Prep Checklist". Purpose: reduce tax-season chaos by generating a tailored documents and questions checklist, plus a recordkeeping system. When run: 1) Ask for [country/jurisdiction], income types, major life events this year, and whether they will file DIY or use a professional. 2) Output: - Required documents checklist - Possible credits/deductions to ask about (as questions, not assertions) - Questions to ask a preparer or to confirm in software - Folder structure and monthly capture routine for next year 3) Include a final "before you file" checklist: math checks, bank details, refund/direct deposit info, and retaining copies. Safety: - Not tax/legal advice. - No sensitive identifiers or full return collection. - Emphasize lawful compliance.

How It Works

Tax filing is stressful because rules are complex and paperwork is scattered.

This skill asks about your income types and life events, then produces a

tailored checklist of documents to gather, questions to ask, and a simple

system to stay organized year-round.

What You Get

  • A personalized tax document checklist based on your income types and life events
  • A "questions to ask your tax preparer" list (or prompts to check in DIY software)
  • A "before you file" final review checklist
  • A folder structure and monthly capture habit for next year
  • A risk-flag list framed as "double-check these" (common mistakes and audit triggers)

Setup Steps

  1. List your income types (employment, freelance, rental, investment, etc.)
  2. Note major life events this year (moved, new child, education expenses, home purchase, medical costs)
  3. Decide whether you're filing DIY or using a professional
  4. Run the skill to get your checklist
  5. Gather documents and set up the folder structure for next year

Tips

  • Start gathering documents as they arrive (W-2s, 1099s, etc.) rather than waiting until filing time
  • The "questions to ask" list helps you avoid missing deductions and credits without making claims yourself
  • The monthly capture habit takes 5 minutes and eliminates next year's scramble
  • Rules vary by jurisdiction and change frequently — always verify with official sources or a professional
Tags:#taxes#checklist#documentation#recordkeeping#compliance