What You Should Do Before Hiring a Tax Preparer
Tax preparation is important for a successful tax return experience. Many times people will choose a professional tax preparer to complete their returns. Obviously you would want someone who knows what they are doing to get you the biggest refund available, or in some cases the best damage control done. There are cases where you, as the taxpayer, could potentially be breaking laws without you even knowing. Before going to your tax preparer, consider these tips.
When you first look into hiring a tax preparer, you might be thinking things like, “How much will the fee be?” or “How do I know if they’re good?” It’s important to remember that the more research that you perform, the more likely that you will end up satisfied with your choice.
When you first schedule an appointment with your tax preparer, inquire about their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) which is a requirement for tax preparation. Any preparer that refuses to show you their number should not be worked with. The sooner you schedule your meeting with your preparer, the sooner you get your money.
After officially hiring your tax preparer you will need to gather all the common information forms and receipts for them. If you donated to a charity, be sure to include that and mention it to your tax preparer as it can be written off. Take note that any donations that exceed $250 must be proven by a written document acknowledging your donation and that you did not receive anything in return for it.
Find your previous years’ return and give it to your tax preparer, assuming you’re working with a new preparer, so it can serve as a reminder for some of the items that you don’t want to overlook.
Bio: Kuba Jewgieniew is the head of Realty ONE Group, a real estate firm that believes in their agents’ success by providing a dynamic platform for them to build upon.
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