What docs do I need to send with my paperwork to the IRS if I am claiming my child?

[arod26]

This is my first time having to paper file, EVER! So by documents I mean info about her daycare/school tuition I paid, car donation to Salvation Army, interest on student loans paid, etc. Thanks!

[arod26]

I have several deductions, so I am unsure if all that paperwork needs to go as well.

[DawnC0 · Accepted solution]

As long as you are e-filing, you do not need to send in any paperwork,  Everything is sent electronically.   

If you choose to file by mail, TurboTax will print out an instruction sheet that details everything you need to mail and the addresses you need to mail them to.  

Generally, when filing by mail, you include W-2s and any tax forms with withholding on them.  The IRS has a copy of any tuition statements (1098-T) and student loan interest statements (1098-E).   Daycare payments are all reported on Form 2441 which is included in your return.  Depending on the value of the car you donated, there may be an additional form required, but TurboTax will let you know and include the form if needed.  On rare occasions, a form will need to be mailed for a car donation.  For more info on that, see this article.  How Do Tax Deductions Work When Donating a Car?

Mailing in unnecessary documents with your tax return can create delays in processing, so only send what is required.  As mentioned above, you will get the instruction sheet that details everything if you are filing by mail.