Keep detailed records Accurate bookkeeping is invaluable in making smart business decisions. But, your bookkeeping is only as good as the information provided. Missing information, like the type of expense that checks were written for or the source of deposited income, can cause business owners to make decisions based on incorrect or incomplete information.

Be kind to your bookkeeper! Provide as detailed records as possible.

Create a system Make it easy on yourself – and your bookkeeper – by making it a no-brainer as to where your financial records are located. Here are some ideas:

• Get an accordion file labeled by month.
• File everything from each month (bank statements, credit card statements, check receipts, etc.) into the appropriate pocket.
• Create a filing system.
• Label separate file folders for everything your bookkeeper will need and keep them one place.

…that the federal tax law allows individuals to include either state and local income taxes OR state and local sales taxes in their itemized deductions?

This means that if you do not pay state and local income taxes, you should always include the sales taxes you’ve paid during the year when you itemize.

Didn’t save all your receipts showing sales taxes paid? No problem! Just use the Sales Tax Deduction Calculator on the IRS.gov website. It’s easy!