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You may want more personalized help filing your tax return this year, and you have a wide range of options and resources.

A tax expert can make sure you get all the tax breaks you deserve, especially in a year where your tax situation may be very different than it had been in the past. Many tax professionals can also help you with tax planning that can save you money in the future.

What Kind of Tax Preparer Do You Need?

When choosing between tax preparers, one of the key factors to consider is their level of experience. They usually have different tiers of services, with some completing just your federal and state returns with little or no additional help offered. But if you had a few different jobs during the year, did some freelance work, started your own business or had other complicated tax situations, then you may need more help. If you’re not really sure what expenses are deductible, an accountant would be able to help you. They might find tax breaks applicable to your business that aren’t even clear to the IRS.

Anyone with an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number can prepare federal tax returns. But you should consider the level of their experience and qualifications. Enrolled agents, CPAs and attorneys can represent clients before the IRS in audits, payment issues and appeals. The Annual Filing Season Program helps other tax preparers who have completed a specific amount of continuing education to prepare for the tax season. There are also PTIN holders who haven’t completed these certifications and, as a result, they can prepare tax returns but can’t represent clients in front of the IRS. The IRS Directory is the best way to find quality tax preparers near you. Tax season is just around the corner, so now is the perfect time to find one! Before you hire a tax preparer, ask family and friends for their opinions on who they’ve worked with in the past. Make sure to also do some research from reputable websites on the company that has been recommended to see if there are any complaints. If everything looks promising, you can then contact them for more details on their services.

Make sure your tax preparer can meet your needs. Do you just need them to file your return, or would you like them to help you with anything else? If you’re just starting out in business, for example, it might be helpful to work with a tax specialist – such as an enrolled agent or Certified Public Accountant – who can let you know about future deductions and tax-planning strategies. If you’re nearing retirement and have a lot of money in your tax-deferred retirement savings plans, it can be a good idea to meet with a qualified advisor who’s also skilled in financial planning and tax preparation. This way you can get professional advice about the most tax efficient way to withdraw from your savings.

Ask questions about the return so you understand what they’ve done and the credits and deductions they’ve taken, which can help you know how to take the tax breaks in the future. “A good tax preparer will explain each step of the process with a taxpayer and allow them to ask questions.” 

Inquire about their back-up support if you have any questions in the future. Avoid tax preparers who only operate a few months a year and will not be there after an IRS audit. In addition to protecting your data, you want to find a tax professional who can help you year-round in case you need to amend a return or if the IRS comes back with questions.

Conclusion: As you can see, there are many benefits to hiring a tax preparer. 

When you’re done filing your own taxes, you may find yourself making the same mistakes year after year. Hiring a professional can help save time and money, while also ensuring that your taxes are filed correctly. Here at IngramTaxes.com, we’re dedicated to helping all our clients receive the best possible results when it comes to tax preparation and filing.

Contact us today for more information about how we can help you! If you are looking for the best tax filing services, we can help. Get in touch by texting/calling us at +1 866-824-1440 or email us at info@ingramtaxes.com. Our professional team is available to take care of your needs and make sure you get what is rightfully yours.