All Tax Preparers are not Created Equal

Just because a tax preparer doesn’t have credentials, it doesn’t mean they’re incompetent or that you shouldn’t use them. Likewise, just because a tax preparer does have credentials, it doesn’t mean they’re competent. So, how do you know who to choose? Let’s look at a few questions to help vet your tax preparer!

What should I ask my tax preparer?

Now we’re getting somewhere! One great question to ask your tax preparer is if they are credentialed (and ask for proof!). Like I stated above, that’s not a sure-fire way to qualify a tax preparer, but it does show commitment and dedication (anyone can get a tax preparer number, but nobody can get Enrolled Agent credentials without first proving themselves). Another question you can ask is how often they deal with tax preparation and/or tax resolution. If your tax preparer only does tax preparation part-time (tax season), are they truly dedicated and vested in taxes with your best interest in mind?

Question 3 (if you’re keeping track), how many years of experience do you have in tax practice? Do you use a computer/software to prepare returns? (The answer to that question should be a resounding “YES!” because computers help catch a LOT of errors and increase accuracy.) Do you give seminars or have publications? (Someone vested in the field of taxes should know enough to give back.) You should also ask about your preparers fees and if they have a written fee schedule. You don’t want any surprises and end up paying $750 because you were deemed to have a “complicated situation”. If you think you have a complicated tax situation, or are curious about others’ experiences, ask for references from people in similar circumstances. There should be any number of happy clients willing to talk your ear off about how great I am. I mean… your tax preparer… how great your tax preparer is (let’s face it; I look forward to helping you out and replacing “your tax preparer” with “Chad Mangum, EA”).

In Summary…

Ask questions such as:

• Do you use software to prepare taxes?
• What are your fees?
• What are your credentials?
• Do you practice taxes full-time?
• Have you given tax seminars or have any publications?
• Can you provide references?

Still Unsure?

That’s completely understandable! Choosing a tax preparer is not a choice to be taken lightly. You are entrusting very sensitive and personal information to someone you might barely know. If you have questions, you can email me at Chad@YourTaxPrep.com, or call me at 801.580.6163. There is also a contact form on our website you can use.  I work hard, have transparent practices, and try to publish constant information (articles & videos) to assist all my clients, potential clients, and the increasingly more common DIY tax preparer.  For more information about Tax Preparation Services, feel free to check out our pricing page to get an idea of our prices and services.