It is vital to have a reliable tax expert as your financial stability and mental well-being depend on it. To guarantee you choose correctly, here are a couple of points to be mindful of:
Make Sure Your Tax Preparer Has a PTIN
Paid tax preparers are required to acquire a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) in order to stay compliant with legal requirements and remain professional. This requirement applies to both electronic and paper returns. Having a PTIN ensures that the federal government can identify you as an authorized tax preparer. It is important to remember that failure to comply with this regulation may have serious consequences.
Avoid Tax Preparers Who Guarantee Specific Refunds Without Knowing Your Financial Situation
The factors that can affect tax preparation costs and the refund amount include marital status, buying or selling a home, having a business, getting a divorce, and having children or education costs. Dan Andrews, of Andrews Lemek, emphasizes that this also applies to tax preparers who charge based on the refund amount. He states, “It is not ethical and contrary to my standards. As a professional CPA, the goal isn’t to get the highest refund. The job is to generate an accurate and complete tax return.”
Get a Referral
When searching for a reliable tax preparer you should get a referral from someone you can trust. This will ensure the preparer you decide on has a record of success. You should also check reviews.
Don’t Sign A Tax Form Before it Is Completed
Prior to signing a tax form, it is important to make sure the return has been completed. The person who is responsible for the tax return is the client, and should they be audited, they could face penalties and fines. Make sure to review the form and address any issues or queries you may have before signing it.
How To Find a Great Tax Preparer
- Ask your friends.
- Ask the preparer for references.
- Be cautious of people who advertise too-good-to-be-true fees.
- Be wary of bait-and-switch deception.
- Inquire about experience.
- Ask if the preparer has met the educational and testing requirements.
- Ask for the preparer’s tax ID number.
The well-trained staff at Andrews Lemek can help you through the process of making out a tax return. Whether you are a senior with special needs or a young person finishing your first year on the job, Andrews Lemek tax preparers have more than ten years of experience and can handle all your needs. In addition to preparing income tax returns, the firm also can help with other business services. For information, call us at (352) 351-8833.