You are looking for a tax preparer to file your income taxes. Exactly what makes a good tax preparer, you may ask? It is good question to ask and for some who did not ask the question beforehand, they may be suffering the consequences later.
If you are paying to have your taxes prepared, the individual should have a Preparer Tax Identification number. PTIN is issued when tax preparer registers with the IRS. He or she must sign all taxes he or she prepares along with attaching their PTIN to tax return filed. You want your tax preparer to have some experience preparing all types of tax forms and dealing with various tax situations. 7 years of tax preparation is usually good sign for a tax preparer. Experience is always great, but the tax preparer will need to have some credentials. Enrolled Agents focus is only taxes. They are required to pass exams regarding tax codes. Enrolled Agent usually has at least 5 years of experience working with the IRS.
You want to ensure tax preparer is A Registered Tax Preparer. This means he or she has passed the test given by the IRS. It also means in they have follow certain guidelines in order to remain A Registered Tax Preparer. For example, the tax preparer should have at least 15 hours of education regarding federal taxation.
You should also try to find a tax preparer that have experience preparing taxes that is similar to your tax situation. Tax preparers should have a flat rate and not charge a percentage of your refund. Rules and regulations may vary from state to state for tax preparers. Therefore, you should ensure your tax preparer has reached exceeded state standards. You must be comfortable of his or her service provided. A legitimate tax preparer will not ask you submit false information to ensure a higher return. Therefore, you can do yourself a favor and avoid anyone who asks you to falsify information.
You should take your time when selecting your tax preparer. A bad choice could come back and bite you in the backside. Once you sign your name on your tax return, it is your responsibility to ensure it was done correctly.
Below is a video with information to help you find a tax preparer
Tax do’s and don’ts”>
As you plan out your tax preparation, how do you know if you are going to a good preparer? How do you know if you’re getting scammed? News 4′s Kristina De Leon wanted to help you protect yourself and went to the experts to find out.
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