There are a lot of forms involved in filing taxes, so make sure you have everything you need before preparing your tax returns in California:
- Gather any documents related to income earned throughout 2025.
- Gather forms supporting available deductions or tax credits related to healthcare, childcare, education, and job expenses.
It is never too early to start gathering your tax documents! You can download our handy checklist to make sure you’re fully prepared to file. The documents can be used for both your federal and California state return.
It is never too early to start gathering your tax documents! The documents can be used for both your federal and California state return.
Personal Documents
Bring all documents below. No photocopies accepted.
- Original picture ID for you and your spouse (if married filing jointly)
- NOTICE: If married filing jointly, both spouses must be present at appointment.
- Taxpayer Identification Number for you, your spouse, and all dependents: Social Security Card, Social Security Number verification letter, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter
- IP PIN (if applicable): IRS Identity Protection PIN notice (CP-01A)
Income Documents
- W-2s for all jobs last year
- 1099s for any other income received last year, including unemployment and self-employment income
- Statements for prizes, scholarships/fellowships, or lottery/gambling winnings
- Overtime Exemption Documentation
- Tips Exemption Documentation
Proof of Health Insurance
- 1095-A and California Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, if you had coverage through the Marketplace (Covered California)
- 1095-B or 1095-C if you had other kinds of insurance or coverage
Other Documents
- Checking and savings account information to have your refund directly
- Tax return from last year, if available
- Child care expenses: provider’s address, phone #, and federal tax ID #
- Homeowners: 1098 mortgage statement and property tax bill
- Education: 1098-T college tuition and 1098-E student loan statements
- Alimony paid or received
- Notices: IRS, Franchise Tax Board (FTB), Health Insurance Marketplace, or anything that says “IMPORTANT TAX DOCUMENT”
- Vehicle Exemption Documentation
Get Help Filing Your Return
If the thought of preparing and filing your taxes makes your head spin, have no fear – there is help available through OC Free Tax Prep. Orange County United Way has joined forces with the IRS, and a coalition of local partners to support Orange County residents during tax season. This year, OC Free Tax Prep will continue to provide its free tax preparation service with in-person and online options:
- File with an expert at an in-person OC Free Tax Prep location
- File your own taxes online at MyFreeTaxes
English 
Español 
