1. How long have you been working as a tax preparer?
You can make sure the information you provide is correct by consulting the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Directory of Tax Preparers, where you can view their credentials and qualifications. In addition, they can be informed in the Better Business Bureau (BBB, for its acronym in English), about the professional history of the preparer.
2. How much fees do you charge?
The cost of a tax preparer’s service varies, depending on how much work it takes to make each statement. The important thing here is that what he charges should not be based on the amount of your refund, it is better to avoid those preparers who base their fees on the percentage of your refund.
3. Will my return be sent by E-File?
You should make sure your preparer files your return with the IRS electronically, as this will speed up the process and help you receive your refund faster.
4. How will I receive my refund?
It’s important to make sure that your refund will come directly to you, either by mail or by direct bank deposit, the latter being the fastest and safest way to receive it.
5. What documents should I provide you?
Keep in mind that a good preparer will ask to see all of your records and receipts. Plus, you’ll need to ask sensitive questions to figure out important facts like your total income and tax deductions.
6. Will you sign the return with your PTIN number?
The PTIN is the identification number that every tax preparer must have, and by law, all preparers must sign returns and include their PTIN.
7. Will you give me a copy of my completed return and return my original documents?
Make sure your preparer will provide you with a copy of your tax return once it has been completed. Also, your preparer must return all your original receipts and other important documents that you provided to prepare your return.
8. Will you be able to help me if the IRS contacts me about my return?
It is important to make sure that your preparer will be able to advise you on any IRS queries.
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9. Will it be available all year?
It is important that you do not rule out the possibility of needing the services of your preparer at any time of the year, so you must make sure that your preparer is available throughout the year and not just before the deadline to file your return with the taxpayer. I.R.S.
10. How do you learn about the new tax laws?
Because tax laws are constantly changing, you should be sure that your tax preparer is someone who is keeping up to date on these topics through continuing education, that is, courses taken by professionals in the field. to keep your license valid.
Fulfill a civic obligation
Paying taxes is very important because it is one of the main ways for the government to obtain income, which it invests in public services such as education, security and the administration of justice. In the United States, in addition to contributing to these public expenses, by paying taxes on time to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you will be able to create a reliable track record that will bring you future benefits. For example, it will provide you with the possibility of renting a property or requesting a bank loan, in addition to bringing you great peace of mind and avoiding subsequent legal problems. Also, many people are not aware of the main benefits of taxes .
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We hope these questions will help you to ensure that your tax preparer is a reliable professional. If asking these questions reveals that a tax preparer is dishonest, don’t hesitate to report it to the IRS. Check out other tips for choosing a good tax preparer.
