We want your visit to be quick and stress-free. Bringing all required documents in physical copies ahead of time helps us prepare your return efficiently and ensures you receive the maximum refund possible.
Bring Bank Account & Routing Numbers
Please bring your bank account and routing numbers if you would like your refund deposited directly into your account. Direct deposit is the fastest and most secure way to receive your refund.
Bring Identification
Please bring the following documents:
- A valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport) for the main tax filer and, if applicable, spouse.
- For everyone who will be listed on the tax return:
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) cards or letters containing a 9-digit number issued by the IRS for tax purposes to individuals who are not eligible for Social Security Numbers.
- Social Security cards.
If you are unable to bring a Social Security card, the following may be accepted:
- If you are receiving Social Security benefits, you may bring your 1099-SSA form.
- If Alameda County Social Services Agency's VITA sites prepared your taxes last year, we may be able to refer to the prior-year return to verify Social Security numbers. We cannot use self-prepared tax returns or returns prepared elsewhere for verification.
Married Filing Jointly
- If you are filing as Married Filing Jointly, both you and your spouse should attend.
- If both spouses cannot attend:
- Bring photo IDs and Social Security or ITIN documents for both spouses.
- The spouse who is not present must be available by video call so we can verify their identity.
Bring Applicable Documents
Common Tax Documents to Bring (Physical Copies Required)
- W-2 - Wage and Tax Statement
- W-2G - Certain Gambling Winnings
- SSA-1099 - Social Security Benefit Statement
- 1095-A - Health Insurance Marketplace Statement
- 1098 - Mortgage Interest Statement
- 1098-E - Student Loan Interest Statement
- 1098-T - Tuition Statement
- Also bring a detailed student account statement.
- 1099-B - Proceeds from Broker and Barter Exchange Transactions
- 1099-C - Cancellation of Debt
- 1099-DIV - Dividends and Distributions
- 1099-G - Certain Government Payments
- 1099-INT - Interest Income
- 1099-K - Payment Card and Third-Party Network Transactions
- 1099-MISC - Miscellaneous Information
- 1099-NEC - Nonemployee Compensation
- 1099-R - Retirement, Pension, Annuity, IRA, or similar distributions
Other Supporting Documents
- Records of charitable contributions, such as receipts or letters
- Property tax bills
- DMV registration form
- Childcare or dependent care expenses, including the total paid and the provider's name, address, phone number, and Social Security Number or tax ID.
Self Employed & Gig Workers
- If you are self-employed or do gig work, please bring records of your business income and expenses, including mileage logs.
- Rideshare drivers should provide their 1099-NEC, 1099-K, and online Tax Summary page.
- If you plan to itemize deductions, provide a summary sheet that includes both the total amount and description of your expenses.