For many, tax season brings a wave of stress and last-minute scrambling. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? With a little preparation throughout the year, you can breeze through tax time with confidence. Here are some simple yet effective tips to keep your finances in order and make filing your taxes a stress-free experience.

We know you’re receiving multiple 1099s and W-2s from the many agencies and employers you’ve worked with throughout the year. Trying to track them all down at the last minute can be overwhelming. Keep a running log of all your earnings and expenses so everything is in one place when tax season arrives.

Pro Tip: Use apps like QuickBooks, Expensify, or a simple spreadsheet to track your financial activity in real time.

Avoid the shock of a big tax bill by setting aside money throughout the year. If you’re self-employed or have multiple income streams, putting aside a percentage of each payment into a dedicated savings account can prevent financial strain when it’s time to pay your taxes.

Pro Tip: A good rule of thumb is to save around 25-30% of your income for taxes if you don’t have withholdings.

Many people miss out on valuable tax deductions simply because they don’t keep track of them. Whether it’s business expenses, home office deductions, or charitable contributions, maintaining records will ensure you maximize your refund or lower your tax liability.

Pro Tip: Keep receipts and categorize expenses throughout the year. Taking photos of receipts and storing them in a digital folder can also be a lifesaver.

Staying on top of these payments prevents underpayment penalties and a huge bill at tax time.

Pro Tip: Set reminders for quarterly payment deadlines: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.

Contributing to tax-advantaged retirement accounts like a 401(k) or an IRA can reduce your taxable income. The more you contribute (within IRS limits), the more you can potentially save on taxes while securing your financial future.

If taxes feel overwhelming, consider working with a CPA or tax professional. They can help you find deductions, ensure accuracy, and even strategize ways to save on taxes in the future.

We know you’ve been juggling multiple jobs and income sources, but tax season doesn’t have to be dreadful! By staying organized, planning ahead, and making small financial adjustments throughout the year, you can take control of your taxes and reduce stress when filing time rolls around.