Tackling taxes with some reputable help
As we all know, it’s tax season. This is the less-than-fun part of the year when we all find out how much money we will get back from the government, or how much we will end up paying.
The tax filing process can be very frustrating and confusing, even when you’ve found all your records and documentation. This is when consumers look for a tax preparer to help them tackle this mundane task, especially when a complex return is involved.
There are reputable tax preparers and Certified Public Accountants in local communities all across Tennessee. If you feel your tax return is too complicated and you need professional help, find a reputable tax preparer or accountant. One way to do this is to ask friends, neighbors or co-workers if they can recommend someone. There are hundreds of companies that offer these services, but they have various prices and fee structures – from hourly rates to fees for various tax schedules.
Other helpful hints when looking for a tax preparer include:
• Avoid tax preparers who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers.
• Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of the refund.
• Use a reputable tax professional who signs your tax return and provides you with a copy for your records.
• Consider whether the individual or firm will be around to answer questions about the preparation of your tax return months, or even years, after the return has been filed.
• Review your return before you sign it and ask questions on entries you don’t understand.
• No matter who prepares your tax return, you (the taxpayer) are ultimately responsible for all the information on your tax return. Never sign a blank tax form, and never submit a prepared form if you have doubts about the propriety or accuracy of what your preparer has done.
• Beware of tax preparation services that will advance your tax rebate — the charges for such a loan are often exorbitant.
• If you have questions about your tax form that your preparer can’t answer to your satisfaction, the Internal Revenue Service offers a toll-free help line at 1-800-829-1040.
The Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, help to resolve complaints through the mediation process, investigate violations of the state Consumer Protection Act, and clarify consumer protection laws. In other words, we are on your side, here to help consumers and business owners who have been affected by unfair business practices.
If you need our services, call Consumer Affairs toll-free at 1-800-342-8385. Another great resource is our Web page, where consumers can get tips on everything from investment scams to home repair. Our Web address is www.tennessee.gov/consumer.