You would not want to hold off searching for a tax expert till the tax season is in full swing. Settling with the first tax preparation service provider that you meet, on the other hand, is a bad idea
The top tax professionals do much more than just the paperwork. They could discover possible savings, help in the case of an audit, and give direction and assistance year-round. Many taxpayers ask themselves, “How can I hire a competent tax expert near me?” To begin with, take the following five steps:
1. Assess Your Tax Preparation Requirements
The very first step in choosing the ideal tax preparer is determining what solutions you require. Some individuals have simple tax filing needs, while others may require the services of a tax accountant who can manage complex tax circumstances and is accessible for consultation throughout the year.
Being a CPA or certified public accountant does not ensure that someone qualifies to handle every other requirement. Many CPAs specialize in auditing, and those who choose a profession in taxation may specialize in a specific sector, such as personal, business, or estate taxes. Similarly, non-CPA tax professionals may be knowledgeable about various types of returns. You want to hire someone who has the necessary experience and expertise.
2. Seek referrals from your network
When you’ve determined the range of services you need, it’s time to start searching. The best way to start is by asking for recommendations or referrals from others.
Find persons in your community that have a similar profile to yours based on your requirements. It involves speaking with employees in a similar sector or business owners in the same industry as you. A reputable attorney or your policy agent may also have contacts with qualified tax preparers. This approach takes longer than just putting “tax services near me” in Google, but it can ensure that you’ll connect with an expert who can efficiently manage your tax returns.
3. Verify Credentials
At the very least, your tax preparation service provider should have a Preparer Tax Identification Number – or PTIN – to file tax returns with the IRS.
Seek the assistance of an enrolled agent, CPA for more complex returns or if you need assistance with tax-saving techniques. But if you are a small business owner, a tax preparation firm that understands your business inside out and offers personalized solutions will benefit your business a lot.
4. Request an Interview
Online evaluations might teach you a lot, but nothing beats face-to-face interaction. This is especially necessary if you’re seeking a long-term business partner.
Tax season is hectic, so don’t plan a lengthy chat; instead, request a five- to ten-minute phone call at the very least. Try asking the following questions to the tax preparation service provider:
- How is the data safeguarded?
- Do you charge a fixed price or hourly pay for each form?
- How many tax filings do you prepare each year?
- Do you file everything in-house, or do you get help?
- Do you file your tax returns digitally?
5. Keep an eye out for red flags
Not every individual who promises to be a tax preparer is genuine. The following red flags may indicate that someone is inept at best or a crook at worst.
Promises of a spectacular return
Like most things in life, if it appears too good to be true, it often is. Except when your income, family circumstances, or tax legislation has drastically altered, your payout should be consistent from year to year. Be cautious about anybody who claims to be able to get you a refund far in advance and surplus of what you’ve previously received.
Unwilling to sign a return
If you are preparing a tax return, you must be the one to sign it. Law requires it. Be wary of tax preparation service providers who are refusing to sign a return. And also, do not sign anything unless you see your preparer put their name first.
A moving office or a website that is no longer available
While some freelance tax preparers operate from home, be wary of anyone who does not appear to have a regular company presence. If it’s tough to track down details, that’s a big warning sign. If you face an audit or a concern with your return in the future, you want to know that the preparer will be easy to locate.
The fee is dependent on the return
Genuine tax professionals will charge by the hour or a fixed fee for their services. It is unethical to assess a fee, depending on the amount of your return.
Choosing a professional tax preparer does need some research and work on your side, but it is well worth it. The purpose of choosing a tax preparation service is to create a professional connection rather than hire someone to fill out a document this year. A competent tax preparer wants that as well and will gladly answer all of your queries.
For all your tax preparation and bookkeeping needs, feel free to reach our experts at M&M Accounting in Mesa.