Tips for Choosing an Accountant or Tax Preparer
January 26, 2008
For my personal needs, tax preparation software works fine. I answer the questions; plug in some numbers; and presto, I send my taxes off into cyberspace. But, when tax issues are complicated, you might want to seek the aid of a professional. Here are some tips that have been shared with me over the years:
Service Guarantee
First, when you choose someone to help prepare your taxes, get some kind of guarantee that they will back you up, if you should ever get audited. Now, it may never happen. But, you do not want a tax preparer that holds up his/her hands and leaves you high and dry, if they make a mistake. If they can’t guarantee their work, walk away. If they know the tax laws, and are confident in their work being correct, it should not be a problem to stand behind you.
Size Matters
Second, bigger does not always mean better. With bigger companies, you can get lost in the shuffle and become a number, rather than a name. Personally, I would rather go with a small firm that will treat you as an individual. The benefit is being able to ask your tax professional, if you have a problem or a question later. Don’t you just hate having to explain something 3 different times because you have had to talk to 3 different people?
Consistency
Also, when next year rolls around, having the same accountant is great. He/she has already done your taxes before, they are more likely to recollect you and your financial circumstances, which mean: less questions and expeditiously getting your taxes done.
In short, I can only recommend finding an accountant that will make the process easier for you, and stand behind their calculations. If you are not comfortable with the person, trust your gut. When it comes to your finances, you definitely want someone in whom you can feel confident will do the job correctly and treat you right. Here’s hoping for a refund!
Tina
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