1. COMPETENCE AND CREDIBILITY

It is very important that you research the credentials of the person you have preparing your taxes. Look for credentials such as enrolled agent or CPA, which will give you some assurance that the preparer has had adequate education and meets ethical standards. Also, make sure that the tax preparer you choose can and will take the time to research any issues they may not be familiar with. They need to be able to call an expert, or have access to technical resources that can help answer any questions they may have.

In addition, use a reputable tax preparer that signs your tax return and provides you with a copy for your records. Also, consider whether the individual or firm will be around to answer questions about the preparation of your tax return, months, even years, after the return has been filed.

2. TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND EXPERIENCE

While most tax preparers know a little about tax laws, many know almost nothing about technical issues. They need to have the technical knowledge to even know where to look, and the experience to know what to look for.

CPAs, accountants, and bookkeepers, without a tax specialty, may not have the time, experience, education, insight or technical skill to deal with the technical analysis and identification of issues necessary to effectively prevent avoidable tax overpayments.

It is important that the tax expert you choose not only has a number of years of experience tackling technical issues, but also a good technical knowledge base to draw from.

3. THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAW

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