No matter whether you have a small or a big business, filing your own taxes can be a daunting task. If you do not have hours to dedicate to tax filing, if you have a complicated situation or if you do not know the first thing about taxes, you probably need a professional tax preparer. However, their services do not come cheap, so you must decide who to hire carefully.
You do not want to throw your hard-earned money at just anyone. Asking questions beforehand will be worth your time. This will enable you to know the person, how they work if they have the experience and skill, and their charges. Contact experts for Tax Resolution for businesses in San Mateo, CA.
Questions to ask before hiring a tax preparer
- What is your level of experience and knowledge of my business?
One of the most important questions to ask your tax preparer is about their experience in the industry of which your business is a part. Ask them whether they have prepared taxes for similar businesses and for how long. They should also hold important certifications to prove they are qualified for the job. Additionally, they should be up to date with the ever-changing laws.
- How long have you worked in this location?
You should beware of tax preparers who move from one location to another frequently. While it is normal for tax preparers to move into a better office or location, scammers usually move around a lot. Once they scam people in one location, they can only afford to stay there for a short time. So, they go to another state or city and set a new target.
- What records and other documentation will you need from me?
You are not required to bring all the documents to your office, but a reputable tax preparer will require you to provide your W-2, 1099, 1098 forms, and other forms of verification. It is not a good sign if your tax preparer is willing to prepare your taxes by using pay stubs. You should work with someone who is able to explain what is required in special situations, forms, or circumstances.
- How do you determine your fees?
It would be helpful to know this information beforehand about their fees and what payment options they have. It is recommended to hire professionals with an hourly charge or flat fees on specific services instead of the ones who charge a percentage on your refund.