Episode 139: What to look for in a tax preparer

On this episode of the podcast I ask Theresa Speights, tax attorney and manager of resolutions at Community Tax LLC in Chicago, about what you should look for when hiring a tax preparer.

If you missed Theresa on previous episodes, check out Episode 137 "How to Handle a Letter from the IRS" and 138 "Back Taxes 101 and How to Get Caught Up"

This episode is sponsored by my FREE training: 3 legal & tax mistakes made by new & experienced business owners and how you can avoid them. Sign up for this free Masterclass here, and get ready to unf*ck your biz.

What to look for in a tax preparer:

1. Never hire anyone who says they're going to be able to get you a huge refund. Eventually you will get audited and you will owe a lot of money.

2. Just because they are on the IRS website as someone you can go to doesn't mean they are good at their job. Ask anyone who refers you about their experience.

3. If you have simple taxes, like a W2, you will be fine at places like Liberty Tax or H&R Block.  If you have more complicated matters it's best to hire a CPA.

4. Ask good questions. Learn if they are more aggressive or conservative when preparing your taxes. For example are they stretching your deductions, or highlighting when you may have gone too far with expenses you want to deduct?

5. Be familiar with your books. Even if you have a bookkeeper, familiarize yourself with the expenses so no deductions from your tax preparer are too surprising

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Get in touch with our guest

Theresa Speights, manager of resolutions at Community Tax LLC

Check out the Community Tax website to email her directly or call her at 773-724-2795

Like Community Tax on Facebook

Follow Theresa on Instagram and Facebook