657040

As April 15th comes down the pike, I want to share some resources to help you prepare your taxes with less stress. Many of us dread tax season (except for the hoped-for tax refund) because it requires digging into details of the past year in a way that might be inconvenient or uncomfortable.

Reframe Tax preparation

The truth is, tax season is good for us! Sometimes we need that external motivator to get our things together and organized. Ideally, we can create systems that keep our files sorted and easy to manage, so that tax season is a breeze. If you’re not quite there yet, that’s okay. We have resources to help you below.

Make tax season easier

Remember to take care of yourself during this process. Be mindful of tension or tightness in your body, or rushing thoughts and anxiety in your mind. Below are some simple tips for ease while you work:

  1. Use a timer: set a timer and commit to working on taxes for just a set amount of time. When it’s over, STOP. Take a break with a brisk walk or cup of tea. Even if you’re in the “zone,” give yourself a few moments to take a deep breath and stretch your body.
  2. Create a reward: if preparing for taxes is bothersome, give yourself a treat when it’s over. It could be as simple as a glass of wine or tea, or as fancy as dinner out with your honey. Or maybe a bowl of ice cream!  You might even have mini-treats as significant parts of the process are completed.
  3. Enlist support: you do not have to go it alone. Ask your partner or a friend to help you, or for support in getting tax papers organized, contact us at 301.270.0969 or info@clutterfreenow.com. We are always here to support you. Working with a professional organizer can work wonders for creating unique organizing systems that will support you through tax time and the rest of the year.

Without further ado, let’s tackle these taxes!

Tax Time Procrastination Buster!
In. this short post, we offer 2 easy steps to get you to work.

Snowy Day: Prepare for taxes!
We hope snow days are done for this year, but the concept is transferrable: did your plans get cancelled? Do you find yourself with unexpected free time? Prepare for taxes!

Organizing for taxes
We share 6 simple steps (with examples) to get everything you need together for your taxes.

Create a filing system that actually works!
Are you tired of having to reinvent the wheel every year to prepare for taxes? We recommend creating a filing system that works, to spare your future self some hassle! Bonus: this system works beautifully for paper files, digital files, and emails!

For all tax related questions, consult with your financial advisor, accountant, or check www.irs.gov for the most up-to-date and reliable information.  For professional tax preparation you might explore connecting with an IRS enrolled Agent .

What is your process during tax season? Do you have a favorite resource? Let us know in the comments!

Discover more ways to mindfully organize your home or office here! >>

Are you overwhelmed in the face of tax season? That's okay! We have collected resources and simple steps to help you get organized.