While you might be anxious about getting your taxes filed and that return on the way, you'll likely get the best result if you choose your tax preparer wisely. Whether your return is simple or complex, the BBB has some tips for picking an appropriate preparer.
(WSIL) -- Monday, January 27, 2025 is the first official day of tax season. On Monday, the Internal Revenue Service will begin accepting your 2024 federal tax returns. So, it's time to break out your W-2 or your 10-99 and get your return ready. And while you might be anxious about getting your taxes filed and that return on the way, you'll likely get the best result if you choose your tax preparer wisely.
In this edition of Better Business Bureau, we walk you through the types of tax preparers out there, and which ones might be the right fit for you.
Sydney Waters is the regional director at the Better Business Bureau in Cape Girardeau. She says, there are 4 different types of tax preparers out there. Here's a little about each, according to Waters:
Enrolled Agents - An Enrolled Agent is a tax specialist who is authorized by the U.S. Department of Treasury to represent all taxpayers before the IRS. They're also required to meet all state licensing, education and training requirements posed by the IRS.
CPA and Tax Attorney - Both of these titles require the preparer to pass all IRS requirements for training and education. Both of these agents can also represent you in the case of an audit.
Non-credentialed tax preparers - A legitimate preparer who often deals with a simpler return. These preparers receive an IRS issued PTIN number that legitimizes them to sign and file your taxes.
Waters suggests doing your homework when choosing your preparer. This is especially true if you have a complex return, or if you're choosing to work with a non-credentialed preparer. Waters wants to remind everyone that your tax preparer will have access to your highly confidential personal and financial information, as well as your interest with the IRS, so the highest confidence is important. You can check your preparer at the Better Business Bureau website: by using the "Scam Tracker". The BBB also has additional tips that can help make your tax season a little easier.
