Tips on Hiring a Tax Pro
The clock is ticking down to April 15. Putting off doing your taxes won’t make the deadline go away. If you bought or sold securities, earned additional income, lived in more than one state, or just think your tax situation is a bit complicated, you might want to call in an expert.
The Associated Press recently published a check list for picking a professional; here are some of the guidelines:
1. Seek help from your inner circle. Get a recommendation from your pastor, family members, co-workers, fellow church members, and neighbors, anyone you consider competent enough to offer an assessment.
2. Make sure they can do the job. Once you’ve got a name, check out their qualifications. Are they a certified public accountant? If not, what other certifications and continuing education credentials do they have?
3. Make sure they have your back. If you get called in for an audit, will they go with you and explain how your return was prepared? While audits are rare, you don’t want to face one solo. If your future tax preparer won’t back you, perhaps they aren’t the right person for the job.
4. Are you OK with their approach? Do you want every deduction in the book, or do you want to ensure the basics are covered? Make sure you both are on the same page about your tax situation.
5. Signature required. Make sure the preparer signs the return. According to the AP, the law requires paid preparers to sign each return they handle, and include an identifying number on the return. If they don’t want to do this, move on to another option.
--PGS Staff
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