Tax filing season is stressful. Once the forms arrive and tax software opens, most filers focus on submitting everything as quickly as possible and waiting for their refund. But speed isn’t always the best strategy.
According to IRS data, there were over 1.2 million math errors on individual income tax returns in fiscal year 2024. Simple errors can delay processing, and overlooked credits are a common issue that can reduce your tax refund or, worse, mean you owe the IRS.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a useful tool for guiding filers through the filing process. To help taxpayers, ChatGPT listed the preparation steps that matter most before filing.
Confirm All Income Is Accounted For
According to ChatGPT, gathering and documenting all income for the year — W-2s from employers and 1099 forms for freelance work, interest, dividends or contract income — is the first step to take.
Once you do this, compare these forms with your own records, such as bank statements or bookkeeping software.
Elizabeth Young, director of tax practice and ethics for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, told CNBC that the IRS receives copies of most tax forms and compares this data with your return. If there’s a mismatch, the agency may flag it for audit.
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Organize and Maximize Deductions
Next, review potential deductions.
If you’re self-employed and itemizing, categorize business expenses, separate personal and business spending, and total up items like software subscriptions, office supplies, advertising, professional fees and mileage.
And if you’re a homeowner, gather mortgage interest statements, found on Form 1098, and property tax records. Also, total charitable contributions and large medical expenses, if applicable.
Before filing, compare the standard deduction with itemizing. According to the IRS, most people take the standard deduction, but those who itemize have deductible expenses and losses that exceed it.
Review Tax Credits
Credits can reduce your overall tax bill dollar-for-dollar. The most common tax credits include the child tax credit, child and dependent care credit, education credits, and home energy credits, although many energy credits expired at the end of 2025.
ChatGPT suggested gathering supporting documentation, such as childcare payment records, tuition statements or receipts for qualifying home improvements.
Verify Payments and Contributions
The last step ChatGPT recommended was to confirm any payments made throughout the year if you’re required to make estimated tax payments.
Also, make sure to review your retirement contributions. In some cases, you can still make deductible contributions to an IRA, SEP-IRA or solo 401(k) before the filing deadline, ChatGPT explained.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked ChatGPT Which Tax Steps Matter Most Before Filing
