Using an Income Tax Preparation Service

If you're like most people, you don't want to do your income taxes yourself, they're just too complicated and the tax laws are complex, too. You'll probably want to start using an income tax preparation service to do your taxes. What do you look for in a good income tax service? Here are some ideas on how to choose wisely.

• Ask for a recommendation. Ask your friends if they use a tax service, and if they're happy with them. That's one of the best references you can get, and if they're not satisfied, you'll know to steer clear of that service.
• Check out the tax service on the Better Business Bureau website. If they've been around for a while, they should have a presence at the Better Business Bureau, and you can find out quickly and easily if they have a good (or bad) reputation with their customers and clients.
• Look online for independent reviews. Often, if people are pleased with their tax prep service, they'll give them a shout out online. Look for services with positive reviews from others in your area, and you'll probably find a reliable and reputable tax preparation service.
• Ask for a guarantee. Many tax services now offer you a guarantee that your taxes will be done right and without errors. Ask your prospective income tax service if they offer any kind of guarantee. If they don't, look for one who does. It can cost a little more, but the peace of mind is worth it.
• Choose a tax preparation service that is responsive to your needs and is prompt at returning phone calls and information. Also make sure the preparer you choose is the one who is actually going to prepare your tax return, rather than hand it off to someone who is less experienced.
• Ask your preparer if they belong to a professional organization that has requirements for continuing education and makes them conform to a code of ethics.
• Make sure the tax service isn't sending your tax return overseas for preparation. Many firms are doing this to save money, but your security and information is often not secure overseas, so avoid tax services that don't prepare your documents on site.

If you can't find an income tax preparation service you're happy with, remember to check with the IRS. They offer a service of volunteers who will prepare your tax return for free.