Choosing the right tax professional is vital because they know your most personal financial details and you need to trust that they’ll accurately file your income tax return. Language barriers can lead to confusion and limited understanding of the tax filing process and your tax rights. At RefundMe, we are fluent in both English and Spanish. Ultimately, you’re responsible for your tax return, regardless of who prepares it.
The IRS offers some tips to find a reputable trusted tax pro:
- Check the preparer’s qualifications. The searchable and sortable IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications helps taxpayers find a tax return preparer with specific qualifications.
- Check the preparer’s history. Taxpayers can ask the local Better Business Bureau about the preparer, including disciplinary actions and license status. Other organizations to check for specific types of preparers include the State Board of Accountancy for any certified public accountant, the State Bar Association for tax attorneys and the IRS’ enrolled agent status page.
- Ask about service fees. Avoid preparers who base fees on a percentage of the refund or who boast bigger refunds than their competition.
- Make sure the preparer is available to you, even after the tax deadline.
- Provide records and receipts. Good preparers will ask to see a taxpayer’s records and receipts and ask questions to figure out things like the total income, tax deductions and credits.
- Never sign a blank return. Tax preparers should never ask you to sign a blank tax form.
- Review before signing. Ask questions if something isn’t clear. You should feel comfortable with the accuracy of your return before signing it.
- Review refund details. Confirm the routing and bank account number on the completed return for a direct deposit or details related to a refund if it’s in another form.
- Ensure the preparer signs the return and includes their Preparer Tax Identification Number. The filed returns are required by law to be signed by preparers and have their ID number. The taxpayer’s copy of the return is not required to have the ID number on it.
