When final return submission deadlines approach, it shouldn’t be the trigger for a flurry of panicked activity as you try to prepare to complete your taxes. Instead, it should be just another task to look after with as little disruption to your routine as possible. Good accounting and bookkeeping practices make that outcome far more likely — even as many people continue to feel stress over personal tax preparation in Calgary.

What can you do throughout the year to make tax time less of a hassle and more of a seamless process? By taking some steps on a monthly basis, you can be sure that when the final deadlines arrive, you’re fully equipped to finish your filings and move on with your year.

Track Monthly Expenses That May Be Deductible

Certain types of expense claims can make it much easier to manage your tax burden. With many opportunities to take tax deductions based on the different types of expenses you encounter, it is wise to maintain good records for each tax year. Folders with supporting documentation for expenses such as medical bills, disability credits, or even the costs of outfitting a new home office for the self-employed will all come in handy around tax time. This way, not only can you claim your deductions with confidence, but you can support your claims in the future as needed.

Locate and Organise All Relevant Paperwork

Alongside tracking your expenses, you should make sure that you don’t leave recordkeeping until the last minute. At the end of each month, review your finances and sort out all the receipts and other items you’ve accumulated through the month. Again, taking this proactive step will ensure you do not lose important documents that you may need later.

Understand Any Quarterly Remittance Requirements

For those self-employed or engaged in operating their businesses, there may sometimes be quarterly tax payments required of you. First, determine whether you fall into this category. If you do, make it a monthly effort to set aside an appropriate portion of your income to remit quarterly taxes on time. Avoid the stress of late payments and penalties by taking regular action to store up the funds you’ll need to meet this burden. When the time comes for your final submission, you won’t need to worry about late or underpayment penalties.

Enjoy Less Stress Through Better Accounting Practices

Few people enjoy the process of managing their own taxes. If you don’t pay close attention and stay up to date on tasks related to your filings, it can mean missing out on valuable deductions or risking blown deadlines. With the help of tax preparation in Calgary AB, you can ensure better results and take some of these tasks off your to-do list. Reion Accounting uses our years of experience, fully digital set of tools, and best practices to help put you in the best possible position for filing and future tax planning. Learn more today.