When it comes to having your taxes prepared it is best to take your time and look for a tax preparation professional, such as BASC Expertise, who will still be around after April 15 rolls around. Remember you have until April 18, 2011 to file your taxes.

 

The IRS rules and regulations for tax filing grow more complicated every year. In order to qualify for the refund you are due and to take advantage of the deductions you have earned, you need someone well-versed in the ins and outs of tax regulations.

 

Last year, the Inspector General of the U.S. Treasury found a 61% error rate in prepared tax returns. The IRS plans to have rules in place by 2014 to provide oversight and training for close to 1 million individuals who prepare taxes. In 2014, the IRS plans to have a program in place to test the competency of tax preparers.

 

It’s important to do your homework before you gather your paperwork, make an appointment and put your trust in a kiosk tax preparer.

Questions to Consider when Speaking to a Tax Preparation Professional:

• Does the tax prep professional get paid by a percentage of your refund?
• Do they guarantee you will get a refund?
• Do they ask for supporting tax documents such as W-2, 1099 and deductions?
• Do they ask you to sign a blank tax return?
• Do they offer you a photocopy of your return?
• Did they refuse to list their Social Security number and sign the return as your paid tax preparer? This is required by law if your return is prepared by someone other than yourself.
• Are they available to answer tax questions year round? Many preparers set up kiosk shops and are only available during the tax season.

Having your tax return prepared by an accountant or bookkeeper well versed in both the federal laws and the laws of the state of Arizona is crucial to your return being prepared correctly.

 

Tips for Selecting a Tax Preparation Professional:

• If you have a complicated tax return, look for a trained accountant.
• Look for a tax preparation professional who has experience with small business tax returns.
• Ask for references from other entrepreneurs, friends, family and colleagues.
• Check the Internet for reviews of potential tax preparers.
• Interview your potential tax preparer about how long they have been in business, what they would do in case of an audit of your tax returns and other appropriate questions.

Having your taxes prepared correctly, especially if you are a small business owner in Arizona is something you don’t want to leave to chance. There is still time to look for a professional tax preparer to make sure your business is properly taken care of at tax time and beyond.