So... you don't want to prepare your income tax return; you want to hire someone to do it for you. How do you find a reliable preparer? Almost anyone can become a paid tax preparer. "Most states have few
to no requirements for certification, training, or even competency
testing" according to a Certified Public Accountant and contributor to
Wirecutter, a product recommendation site owned by The New York Times
Company.
If your financial life is simple: Consider free tax-preparation resources
"If you make less than $56,000 per year or are age 60 and older, you may
want to look into having your tax return prepared through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (T.C.E.) programs."
If you want a professional:
Step 1: Compile a list of potential C.P.A.s and tax accountants
Ask friends, family, and co-workers for referrals. Ask people who are in a similar financial situation to you.
Search the I.R.S. directory.
the I.R.S. maintains a directory of P.T.I.N. holders (preparer tax identification number)—"such as C.P.A.s, enrolled agents (E.A.s), and attorneys — who have current credentials recognized by the I.R.S. The directory also includes people who have completed the Annual Filing Season Program, a series of voluntary continuing education classes covering federal tax law and ethics." Search the directory by ZIP code to find a professional near you.
the I.R.S. maintains a directory of P.T.I.N. holders (preparer tax identification number)—"such as C.P.A.s, enrolled agents (E.A.s), and attorneys — who have current credentials recognized by the I.R.S. The directory also includes people who have completed the Annual Filing Season Program, a series of voluntary continuing education classes covering federal tax law and ethics." Search the directory by ZIP code to find a professional near you.
Check with your state or national associations. E.A.s (enrolled agents) "are federally licensed tax practitioners who are authorized to
advise, represent, and prepare tax returns for individuals and
businesses."
If your financial life is simple: Consider free tax-preparation resources
"If you make less than $56,000 per year or are age 60 and older, you may
want to look into having your tax return prepared through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (T.C.E.) programs."
Step 2: Narrow down your options
Verify their credentials.
Read online reviews.
Make an appointment early in tax season.
Step 3: Interview prospective preparers
bring a copy of your most recent tax return.
Questions to ask:
How long have you been preparing taxes?
Do you have any specialties?
How do you bill for your services?
Are you available for questions outside of tax season?
Who will prepare my return?
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