Factors to Consider When Looking for a CPA for Your Taxes

Do you recoil at the thought of preparing your tax return? Are you dealing with problems like paying off tax debts or fighting off audits? 

Regardless of what situation you are in, availing of the services of a qualified CPA in Westwood could be best for dealing with your tax situation. 

Yes, finding the ideal CPA is not a piece of cake. Find below some of the factors that you need to consider to ensure that you’re making the right choice. 

1. Specialization 

Forensic and government accounting, businesses accounting and tax preparation are some of the accounting areas that CPAs can specialize in. 

For preparing and filing your taxes, you need to consider someone who offers individual income tax services in Westwood. 

2. Industry experience 

While CPAs are tax professionals who’ve passed the CPA exam and are licensed by the state to offer their services, only those with years of experience will have a deeper understanding of the tax code. 

Also, make sure that the CPA knows how to electronically file tax returns. The IRS requires tax preparers who file eleven or more tax returns a year to provide e-filing services. 

So, you know that you are working with someone experienced. 

3. Check their license 

CPAs are licensed by the state. This means that you can easily look up their records with the state’s board of accountancy. 

Typically, you can search the CPA database by name and find crucial information on your chosen CPA in Westwood regarding the license status, expiration dates, and even disciplinary actions if any. 

4. Identification number verification 

CPAs who prepare taxes are required to register with the IRS and have a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number). 

You can verify if the CPA is registered with a PTIN by simply going through the IRS Return Preparer Office Directory. 

5. Find out their willingness to sign 

Ask if the CPA is going to sign your tax return and also represent you before the IRS for any matter related to your tax return. If not, you need to find a CPA who will. 

6. Determine the fees 

CPAs offering tax services in Westwood can charge by the hour or they can have a flat fee. They may even have other payment options according to the complexity of your taxes. Ensure to find out if the fees include both state and federal returns. 

However, be wary of CPAs basing their fees on a percentage of your tax refund. Generally, they are not allowed to do this and you should not agree to this form of arrangement. 

Finally, it might help to do a background check on the CPA in Westwood. Learn about what people have to say about their services. 

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Created on Jun 23rd 2021 05:24. Viewed 106 times.

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