Most tax preparers prepare, file, or help with general tax forms. Beyond these basic services, a tax preparer can also defend a taxpayer before the IRS. This includes audits and tax court matters. However, the extent of what a tax preparer can do depends on your credentials and whether you have representation rights.
A tax preparer is a person who prepares, calculates and files income tax returns on behalf of individuals and businesses. There are several different types of tax preparers, some have credentials issued by third-party organizations, while others are not accredited. Knowing the different types of tax preparers and credentials can help you get the best tax result. All tax appointments through April 18 are complete.
April 18 is the IRS filing deadline. If you need to file your taxes, consider preparing them with free tax software. Packed with powerful time-saving tools and features, UltraTax CS provides preparers access to federal, state and local tax programs, including individual, corporate, corporate, estate and trust tax returns, multi-state returns, and many others. We started by entering W2 and 1099 into UltraTax CS, and then transitioning to Schedule C and F, etc.
This non-profit, public-private partnership is dedicated to helping millions of people prepare and file their federal taxes online for free. Unlike CPAs, EAs, and tax attorneys, many unaccredited tax preparers only provide tax preparation assistance for a few months of the year during tax season. In that time, you gain experience that sets you apart as a tax preparer and allows you to differentiate yourself in the marketplace. If you're one of them, it's important to organize your receipts, forms, and other documents long before you pay taxes.
With sufficient knowledge of tax law, a tax preparer can review all of the customer's personal information, including Social Security numbers, income statements, and personal and business expenses, to determine what expenses and circumstances may result in deductions or credits prosecutors. Whether you do your own taxes or hire someone else to handle the task, organizing your records ahead of time will save you time and, in the case of a paid preparer, money. At some tax sites, taxpayers also have the option of preparing their own basic federal and state tax return for free using web-based tax preparation software with an IRS-certified volunteer who will guide you through the process. Alternatively, if you're on a tight budget, a few well-chosen tax books may be enough to get you started.
A great first stop is the IRS website, which is full of publications and instructions that will help new and experienced preparers address changes in the tax code, as well as frequently asked questions and other helpful tips. They can also prepare tax returns for their clients and are authorized to represent their clients before the IRS in all tax matters. To receive a free federal tax return, you must select an IRS Free File provider on the Search All Offers page or in the results of the online search tool. The basic IRS requirement for all paid tax preparers is to pass the eligibility check and receive a PTIN.
