Learn Tips
More than half of all taxpayers pay a tax preparer to file their return. Before using a commerical tax preparer, find out if there is a VITA site near you. If you need to use a paid preparer, the tips below will help you find the right one.
Using a Paid Tax Preparer
- Select a tax preparer that you can contact later in case the IRS has questions about
your tax return.
- Check out the tax preparer's reputation with others in the community. You can also
research the tax preparer with your local Better Business Bureau to see if any
complaints have been filed.
- Ask about fees to have your taxes prepared before scheduling an appointment. Be
sure to ask if there are any fees for additional schedules or forms, like the Schedule
EIC, used to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit.
- Do not leave originals of documents with a tax preparer if he or she needs to work on
your tax return when you are not present.
- Avoid a tax preparer who suggests you lie or make up information. You will be held
responsible for errors, NOT the preparer.
- Do not sign a blank tax return or a return completed in pencil. Sign a tax return in pen,
only after you've reviewed it. Check names, addresses, Social Security numbers and
wage information. Ask questions to understand the reason for any refund you get or
taxes that you owe.
- Check that the tax preparer signs the tax return in pen. The preparer's signature,
address and Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security number are
required on the tax return by federal law.
- Request a copy of your completed tax return. Write down the preparer's phone
number to call if you have additional questions about your tax return later.
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