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People who own businesses typically work with a CPA throughout the year on charitable planning issues, calculations of quarterly estimates and sometimes tax notices, Dula how to find the best tax preparer near you says. Anybody who works with the public probably has a negative online review from a disgruntled client. But if your research uncovers red flags such as a pattern of client complaints, unprofessional social media posts, or an arrest record, move on to your next candidate. Let us walk you through a three-step process to find a qualified CPA or tax accountant near you. Unfortunately, just about anyone can become a paid tax preparer.
Tax preparers are individuals who may or may not be credentialed. Anyone who accepts a form of payment for preparing taxes should at the very least, however, have a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). They’ll work with you to file your federal and state tax returns, make sure you are taking advantage of any tax credits and deductions you’re eligible for, and sign off on your return once complete.
A good tax preparer can ensure you receive all the credits you qualify for and can help you avoid filing an extension or amendment, or paying penalties and interest. If you already have a financial counselor, they might be able to refer you to a tax expert. If you are a business owner, finding someone experienced in filing returns for businesses can be an advantage over someone who only files returns for individuals.
The Best Online Tax Filing Software
So, to increase the odds of finding a qualified tax preparer, look for someone who is credentialed. You are much more likely to get a competent preparer if they’ve been vetted by the IRS or a state regulatory board. The most common types of credentialed preparers are certified public accountants (CPAs), enrolled agents, attorneys, and annual filing season program participants. The most common type of credentialed preparers are certified public accountants, attorneys and enrolled agents. Enrolled agents are licensed by the IRS and must pass a special exam and complete mandatory continuing education. Tax advisors or consultants may also assist in the preparation of tax returns, but their range of work is typically more complex.
Ask About Tax Preparation Fees
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Like finding the right doctor or therapist, finding the best tax preparer or tax advisor for your situation can take time. When choosing a tax preparer, ask them about their communication preference. Some tax preparers prefer discussing issues over the phone or video while others will answer basic questions via email. Online reviews of tax preparers are also available, but verifying the people who wrote them can be tricky. If you receive a recommendation for a CPA, ask the tax preparer for a few references and shop around before you make a decision.
Do a background search
Take a closer look at the options available to qualifying taxpayers at no charge. He regularly writes about investing, student loan debt, and general personal finance topics geared toward anyone wanting to earn more, get out of debt, and start building wealth for the future. You can learn more about him on the About Page or on his personal site RobertFarrington.com. While we don’t recommend you get a tax refund loan (since the average return only takes 21 days to process — see our refund calendar here), we also know we can’t be your mom.
- But be aware that local tax preparers may know local rules that may affect your taxes.
- You definitely want someone who’s been in business for at least two years.
- If a tax preparer’s misconduct or improper tax preparation practices has financially impacted you, you can make a complaint with the IRS.
- Also, check for complaints against CPAs with the appropriate state board of accountancy; for attorneys, consult their state bar association.
- Some tax preparers prefer discussing issues over the phone or video while others will answer basic questions via email.
- If meeting with a tax pro in person isn’t critical, you may consider getting help online.
The tool, offered in English and Spanish, is now available to more than 30 million eligible taxpayers across 25 states. For more information and a complete list of our advertising partners, please check out our full Advertising Disclosure. TheCollegeInvestor.com strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. The information in our reviews could be different from what you find when visiting a financial institution, service provider or a specific product’s website.
Report Problems to the IRS
Most tax preparers are legitimate and competent, but you should conduct a thorough interview with the tax preparer before hiring them. Tickmark, Inc. and its affiliates do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or recommendations. All information prepared on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be relied on for legal, tax or accounting advice.
- Guides, templates, and checklists to make finances a little easier.
- You can also file a complaint against a CPA or attorney with the appropriate state regulatory board.
- The BBB assigns grades ranging from A+ (the highest) to F (the lowest).
- Some people may never need anything more than quality tax-prep software or another type of tax preparer to complete their annual returns.
- To verify whether someone is an enrolled agent, email the IRS a request for enrolled agent status verification to
If you visit one of these preparers, you will likely be assigned to an individual whose skills align with the complexity of your return. As with any other service or product you buy, make sure you have a good idea of tax preparation fees ahead of time. Fees for tax return preparation can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the complexity of your return, where you live, and the preparer’s experience. That’s why it is important to get a quote before settling on a tax preparer. For credentialed tax preparers, you might also want to check their licensing status and look for disciplinary actions against them. For CPAs and attorneys, check with the state regulatory board in charge of licensing.
The Accredited Business Accountant/Advisor and Accredited Tax Preparer are examples of programs that help preparers fulfill the Annual Filing Season Program requirement. There are many tax pros out there ready to help with an annual return, tax planning and more. But it can be hard to know whom to trust with your most sensitive information.
You should consult your own legal, tax or accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. The content on this website is provided “as is;” no representations are made that the content is error-free. But how do you know which tax professional near you will truly understand your needs? In this guide, you’ll explore key tips to help business owners like you find the ideal local tax professional.