How To Choose The Best Tax Service Near Me?

Changing tax laws, the never-ending series of tax forms and easy-to-overlook deductions can lead to a lot of confusion come filing time. If you think that you can use some help with your tax return, then you’re not alone.

Do you know more than 50% of taxpayers hire a professional tax preparer? But, you need to pick your tax preparer carefully. Follow our tips and find the professional you need. Search on Google “Tax Service near me” and you will see plenty of options there.

Important tips for taxpayers to keep in mind when selecting a preparer:

1. Check The Qualifications

You can use the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications. It helps taxpayers find a tax return preparer with particular qualifications.

2. Check The History

Must ask the Better Business Bureau about the tax preparer! You can check for disciplinary actions as well as the license status for credentialed preparers. Check with the State Board of Accountancy for CPAs while check with the State Bar Association for attorneys, and for Enrolled Agents, go to verify enrolled agent status page on the website of the IRS.

3. Ask About Service Fees

Do not hire a preparer who base fees on a percentage of the refund. When you are asking about a preparer’s services and fees, do not give them your tax documents, Social Security numbers (SSN) or other information.

4. Review Your Return

You need to carefully look over the tax preparer’s work before signing and filing as you are legally responsible for the information on your return. Paid preparers have to sign returns and include their PTIN. Get a copy of your return. Don’t be afraid to ask your preparer questions if something seems unclear.

5. Familiar With The Requirements Of The States And Localities

Make sure that your tax preparer is familiar with the requirements of the states as well as localities that you must file in. Suppose you live in one state but work in another, then there may be filing requirements to consider. You may have a business that has sales in different states or has relocated to a different state during the year.

6. Ask E-File

Ensure the tax preparer can file returns electronically. Today this is a must. Also, refunds are faster with fewer mistakes.

7. Provide Records And Receipts

Keep in mind that reliable preparers will ask to see a taxpayer’s records and receipts. Also, they will ask questions to find out things like the total income, credits, and tax deductions. Also, find out when you will receive a copy of your tax return, it must be delivered within a reasonable amount of time.

Report Abusive Tax Preparers to the Internal Revenue Service. Most tax return preparers are honest and provide good service to their clients. But some preparers can be dishonest. You must report abusive tax preparers and suspected tax fraud to the IRS. For this, you can use Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer.