Johnson, Agen, Kupferschmidt & Associates

Tax Tips

January 2009

Read This Before Choosing a Tax Preparer

If you will be paying someone to do your tax return, choose a tax preparer wisely. Reputable tax preparers have your best interest in mind and are trying to help you avoid penalties, interest, or additional taxes. Use the following tips to choose a professional tax preparer:

Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of your refund or who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers.
Only use a tax professional that signs your tax return and provides you with a copy for your records.
Choose a tax preparer who will be around to answer questions after the return has been filed.
Avoid tax preparers that ask you to sign a blank tax form.
Ask questions. Do you know anyone who has used the tax professional?
Were they satisfied with the service they received?
Determine if the preparer's credentials meet your needs and if he/she has any questionable history. Is he/she an Enrolled Agent, CPA or attorney?
If so, the preparer can represent taxpayers before the IRS on all matters. Before you sign your tax return, review it and ask questions.
December 2008
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September 2008