Friday, January 6, 2012

Good Record-keeping Habits for the New Year

Start the year off right by learning which items you’re required to substantiate with receipts or other records. Then get organized to track these items throughout they year. Suggestions:

  • Use a 3- ring binder to file the receipts and acknowledgments for charitable contributions, estimated tax payments, information returns, and other tax-related information you’ll need at tax time.

  • Use an expandable file to keep receipts for medical and other deductible costs. Alternatively, scan receipts into your computer (or use an app to scan) to create a permanent record.

  • Use apps to track your driving that may be deductible (e.g., for business, medical, moving, or charitable purposes)