Keeping good records for tax season doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming—the secret is regular monthly updates, not a desperate effort at tax time. Begin with a system tailored to your lifestyle—whether it’s a handwritten log, a Excel file, or kokitoto a free app designed for personal finance. Track every dollar you bring in, no matter how minor the payment. Hold onto proof of deductible costs for gifts to qualified organizations, healthcare costs, and anything else you might be able to deduct. If you use part of your home for work, calculate the percentage of your home dedicated to business and record associated bills for power, water, and Wi-Fi. Organize all filings in one secure location so all paperwork is easily accessible. Once a month, dedicate 10 minutes to organize your files. That way, come April, you’re not overwhelmed. You won’t need to remember every detail—you’ll just need to grab your compiled documents. Good record keeping also helps you spot trends in your spending or income which can lead to better budgeting throughout the year. You don’t need to be exact—it’s about taking control before tax season arrives.