Tax documents for real estate agents
Most agents are independent contractors paid on commission, which means they report income from the brokerage and track their own business costs. This checklist covers the documents preparers commonly ask agents for.
Income documents
- 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC from your brokerage
- Commission statements or closing disbursement records for each sale
- Referral fee income and any bonuses
- Any income from other brokerages or side activities
Expenses and receipts
- MLS and association dues
- Brokerage desk fees and transaction fees
- Errors and omissions insurance
- Marketing, signage, photography and advertising
- Lead-generation and CRM subscriptions
- Continuing education and licensing fees
- Client gifts and meals (with who and why)
- Phone, internet and software
Other records to gather
- Mileage log for showings, listing appointments and closings
- Home office measurements, if you qualify
- Estimated tax payment confirmations
- Health insurance premium statements if self-paid
- Retirement plan contribution records
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mileage not logged for the whole year
- Missing receipts for marketing and client gifts
- Mixing personal and business card spending
- Underpaying estimated taxes in a big commission year
Frequently asked questions
Do agents pay quarterly estimated taxes?
Most independent-contractor agents are expected to, because no tax is withheld from commissions. Your preparer can tell you how much and when.
What records support meals and gifts?
Keep the receipt plus a note of who was there and the business reason.
Related checklists
This is a general checklist to help you gather paperwork, not tax or legal advice. Rules and thresholds change and depend on your situation, so confirm details with a qualified preparer or the IRS.