Six Characteristics You Want Your Accountant To Have

If you have your taxes prepared professionally by an accountant, it's going to cost you about $200, not a small amount of money. However, can you afford not to have this done?

Most people miss at least $100 in deductions, perhaps more. If you don't have an accountant, it's going to cost you a lot in missed deductions and extra money paid to Uncle Sam.

Now that you know what you have to do, here are six suggestions that will help you pick the right accountant:

1. Pick someone you can visibly see, shake their hand and converse with one on one. Why not the big chain where anyone and everyone might handle your case? An accountant is someone you need year round. Big chains have people in from January through April. Calling their 800 number in the "off season" is going to take more time, stress and energy than it is worth to answer simple questions.

2. Cost. Need more be said? Big chains offer what appear to be minimal fees until you read the fine print and find out that each deduction might have a separate fee. Even guaranteeing the accuracy of their work could cost you money. In the long run, an accountant can provide you with better service for the money. And yes, their work is guaranteed without an additional fee.

3. Credentials matter. You need a licensed professional, why you ask? Only a licensed professional-CPA, EA or tax lawyer can represent you in court. The only states that license additional tax professionals are Oregon and California. Therefore, almost anyone that wants to can claim to be a tax professional, but don't be fooled. You can't have Tom, Dick or Harry represent you in court, so why would you risk it?

4. Ask for references and referrals. Just as with your doctor or dentist, ask friends and family for referrals. It's one way to help guarantee that you'll get good service and will be satisfied with the results.

5. Service. It's important and it should not be underrated. Minnesota Nice should apply to every tax preparer. If your calls are not returned, if they are rude, if they don't have time for you, if they are not professional then walk out the door. Taxes are uncomfortable enough without the pain of poor customer relations, so find someone who consistently has the time and effort to work with and for you.

6. Your expectations should be reasonable. Remember that your accountant can only work with what he or she is given. Therefore, if you are not responsible or have bad records, it's likely that the results aren't going to be perfect. However, your accountant can do the best job possible, and he or she may also be able to help you become better at keeping tax records yourself. Take advice from them as long as you trust them, and maybe taxes won't be so stressful next time.

Article Source: http://www.search4allinfo.com

Author Delano Vestal is a writer for Lisa Baskfield and Associates, a CPA in Rogers MN. Lisa Baskfield and Associates excells in small business and personal accounting and tax preperation. As a Rogers CPA, Baskfield serves the entire Twin Cities Metro.

Please Rate this Article

5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5 

Not yet Rated