Preparing Your Records for Tax Season: A Guide for Online Businesses

Getting Your Records Ready for Your Tax Professional

When it comes to preparing income taxes, business owners often face a choice: tackle it themselves or hire a professional. For many, enlisting the help of a bookkeeper or accountant is the most practical option. Tax laws can be complex, and mistakes can be costly, so why not rely on an expert to handle the details and reduce your tax-time stress?

To ensure your tax preparer can do their best work, it's important to provide them with well-organized records. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you gather everything you need

Business Records:

  • Annual Revenue
  • Annual Expenses
  • Business Use of an Automobile 
  • Asset Additions
  • Business use-of-home details for example: office space, interest paid on mortgage
  • Business Use of an Automobile: Include operating expenses and a vehicle log with business kilometers driven. Consider using apps to track this information.

Previous Tax Records:

  • Last Year's Notice of Assessment
  • Amounts paid by installments
  • A copy of your income tax return filed last year (if you’re a new client)

Other Records:

Depending on whether you're filing a T2 (corporate) or T1 (personal) income tax return, your accountant will need various information slips and tax-related documents. Common items include:

  • Income slips (if you have employment as well as business income)
  • T4A commissions & self-employed
  • T5013 Partnership Income
  • T3 Income from Trusts
  • T5 Investment Income
  • RRSP contribution slips
  • Charitable donations
  • Medical and dental receipts
  • Child care information

Tips to Save Money on Your Tax Preparation Fees

Tax professionals typically charge by the hour, so making their job easier can save you money. Here are some tips:

  • Summarize and Tally Records: Categorize and total checks, invoices, and expenses. Sort information slips by type.
  • Organize by Business: If you have multiple businesses, separate revenue and expenses for each.
  • Be Thoroughly Organized: Group receipts by type and label them clearly. The less your tax preparer has to decipher, the less time they'll spend on your file.

Remember, hiring a tax professional is an investment in peace of mind. Their fees are a legitimate business expense, and you'll benefit from knowing your taxes are compliant and submitted on time. Download our FREE Tax Prep Checklist to streamline your tax preparation and save time and money.

We're here to help! Book your online appointment with KC & Company today for personalized service and attention to your tax needs.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *