6. Provide records and receipts. All reputable tax return preparers will request to see your records and receipts. They will ask questions to determine your total income and your qualifications for deductions, credits and other items. Do not use a preparer who is willing to e-file your return by using your last pay stub before you receive your Form W-2. This is against IRS e-file rules and should be a red flag to you.
7. Never sign a blank return. Avoid tax return preparers who ask you to sign a blank tax form. A trusted and reputable preparer will never ask you to sign a blank tax form.
8. Review the entire return before signing. Before you sign your tax return, review it and ask questions. Make sure you understand everything and are comfortable with the accuracy of the return before you sign it. Remember that you are legally responsible for what is on the return.
9. Make sure the preparer signs and includes their PTIN. A paid tax return preparer must sign the return and include their PTIN as required by law. He or she must also provide you with a copy of the tax return.
10. Report abusive tax preparers to the IRS. You can report suspected tax fraud and abusive tax return preparers to the IRS on Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer. If you suspect a preparer filed or altered a return without your consent, you should also file Form 14157-A, Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit. Download the forms at www.IRS.gov or order them by mail at 1-800-829-3676.
10 Steps to Success
Filing a tax return is one of the most important yearly financial tasks we undertake, and it’s serious business. But with the help of a trustworthy preparer and by following the 10 tips above, you can ensure a successful tax return process every time.
Other articles by Richard Torres:
Small Business Verification For Prospective Hires
10 Business Tips For A Less Taxing Filing Season
Richard Torres has more than 30 years’ experience in IRS collections, examinations and communication outreach departments. As president of TNT Business Tax Consultant, he consults on technical tax and tax returns, and represents taxpayers, trusts, partnerships, corporations and estates. He provided tax law training and seminars to the tax professional and small businesses on how they will impact their industries. Richard is a honorary member of the Dutchess Regional Chamber of Commerce, member of the NYSSBDC for Latino Entrepreneurs Advisory Board and recipient of the Hispanic Internal Revenue Service Regional V.P. Service Award, 2011 NYSSBDC Federal Enforcement and Compliance Award and 2011 U.S. Department of the Treasury Albert Gallatin Award. Richard holds a Bachelor of Business degree from SUNY, New Paltz. Visit his website at www.torresirshelp.com.