Tax Returns: Do Them Yourself or Hire Help?

There are times it makes sense to actually hire a tax pro. Tax software is great and for millions of Americans, it’s a good solution, but there are times you need professional help.

It’s best to use a professional when you own your own business, you’ve gone through a major life change like marriage or divorce, you’ve bought or sold a home in the previous year, you own rental property or have a large investment portfolio. In other words, if your taxes are complicated for any reason, it pays to hire a professional. If you manage to pick an experienced accountant, you’ll find that he or she has probably prepared a return for someone in your exact situation. What’s more, if the IRS has issues with the filing, such as wanting more information, your professional will handle the exchange.

Picking a professional is a whole other kettle of fish. Certified public accountants are the gold standard having completed a four-part accounting exam. What’s more, they can represent you in front of the IRS (if it comes to that.) However, there are less expensive ways to get help. Enrolled agents who have passed a tax exam and/or actually worked at the IRS and are licensed to file taxes. You can find an enrolled agent at www.naea.org.   Some certified financial planners also offer tax services. At a minimum, you want your CFP to be talking to whoever prepares your taxes. There are also accredited tax accountants and tax planning services. (I did say it was a whole kettle of fish, right?) Getting a preparer who is recommended by someone you know and trust is a good idea, too. Keep in mind, though, if there is an accountant that everybody in the office uses because he gets incredible refunds, I’d stay away. When a pro gets in trouble, the feds typically audit everyone he did a return for.

Truth is, tax software isn’t nearly as scary as you might think. You don’t do math. The software makes calculations for you. And, the way the packages work is that they have you fill out the form by asking you questions and prompting you for a response. Better yet, if you make a mistake using a software program, like entering the wrong Social Security number, the IRS will ask you to fix the issue, instead of sending you a bill.

For some of us, it comes down to a comfort level – do you want to handle it on your own, or do you want a pro to do it for you. Just make sure that however you get it done that you file electronically. Filing online is the most secure way of filing your taxes, and guarantees the quickest processing.