
Advice For Choosing A Tax Return Preparer
IRS Tax Tip 2006-065
Taxpayers
who pay someone to do their taxes should choose a preparer wisely. If you
choose to use a paid tax preparer, it is important that you find a qualified tax
professional. Taxpayers are ultimately responsible for everything on their
return even when it's prepared by someone else. While most tax return
preparers are professional and honest, taxpayers can use the following tips to
choose a preparer who will offer the best service for their tax preparation
needs.
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Ask about
service fees. Avoid preparers who claim they can obtain
larger refunds than other preparers, or those who guarantee results
or base fees on a percentage of the amount of the refund. |
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Plan ahead.
Choose a preparer you will be able to contact after the return is
filed and one that will be responsive to your needs |
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Get references.
Ask questions and get references from clients who have used the tax
professional before. Were they satisfied with the service
received? |
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Research.
Check to see if the preparer has any questionable history with the
Better Business Bureau. Find out if the preparer belongs to a
professional organization that requires its members to pursue
continuing education and also holds them accountable to a code of
ethics. |
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Report
suspected tax fraud and abusive tax preparers to the IRS by calling
1-800-829-0433 |