Fresh Start Tax LLC –  How to Choose a Tax Preparer

Many people hire a professional when it’s time to file their tax return.

You can use our firm comprised of Former IRS Agents and Managers to file tax returns that optimized the entire tax law.

If you pay someone to prepare your federal income tax return, we urge you to choose that person wisely.

Even if you don’t prepare your own tax return, you’re still legally responsible for what is on it.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a tax preparer:

• Check to be sure the preparer has a PTIN. All paid tax preparers are required to have a Preparer Tax Identification Number or PTIN.

In addition to making sure they have a PTIN, ask the preparer if they belong to a professional organization and attend continuing education classes.

• Check the preparer’s history. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the preparer has a questionable history. Check for disciplinary actions and for the status of their licenses.
• For enrolled agents, check with the IRS Office of Enrollment. (Enrolled agents are licensed by the IRS and are specifically trained in federal tax planning, preparation and representation.) For certified public accountants, check with the state board of accountancy.
•  For attorneys, check with the state bar association. Ask about service fees. Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your refund or those who say they can get larger refunds than others can.
• Always make sure any refund due is sent to you or deposited into your bank account. Taxpayers should not deposit their refund into a preparer’s bank account.

• Ask to e-file your return. Make sure your preparer offers IRS e-file. Any paid preparer who prepares and files more than 10 returns for clients generally must file the returns electronically. IRS has safely processed more than 1.2 billion e-filed tax returns.

• Make sure the preparer is available. Make sure you’ll be able to contact the tax preparer after you file your return – even after the April 15 due date. This may be helpful in the event questions come up about your tax return.

• Provide records and receipts. Good preparers will ask to see your records and receipts. They’ll ask you questions to determine your total income, deductions, tax credits and other items. Do not use a preparer who is willing to e-file your return using your last pay stub instead of your Form W-2. This is against IRS e-file rules.

• Never sign a blank return. Don’t use a tax preparer that asks you to sign a blank tax form.

• Review your return before signing. Before you sign your tax return, review it and ask questions if something is not clear. Make sure you’re comfortable with the accuracy of the return before you sign it.

• Ensure the preparer signs and includes their PTIN. Paid preparers must sign returns and include their PTIN as required by law. The preparer must also give you a copy of the return.

Tax Preparation – How to Choose a Tax Preparer – Former IRS Agents – Ft.Lauderdale, Miami, West Palm Beach