Seven Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer

As tax laws become increasingly complicated, more taxpayers rely on tax professionals and tax software to help prepare their returns. In her most recent report to Congress, the National Tax Advocate, Nina Olson, cited tax complexity as one of the most serious problems facing taxpayers, noting that about 60% of taxpayers pay someone to prepare their returns.

If you're one of the estimated 84 million taxpayers who will opt to use a paid tax preparer this tax season, you should choose carefully. You're legally responsible for what goes on your tax return, even if the return is prepared by someone else. You want to select someone who is knowledgeable, honest and professional. How do you find a preparer that measures up? Following are seven tips for choosing a tax preparer: