If you pay someone to prepare your tax return, the IRS urges you to choose that preparer wisely. Taxpayers are legally responsible for what’s on their tax return even if it is prepared by someone else. So, it is important to choose carefully when hiring an individual or firm to prepare your return. Most return preparers are professional, honest and provide excellent service to their clients.
Here are a few points to keep in mind when someone else prepares your return:
- Check the person’s qualifications.
- Check the preparer’s history.
- Find out about their service fees.
- Ask if they offer electronic filing.
- Make sure the tax preparer is accessible.
- Provide all records and receipts needed to prepare your return.
- Never sign a blank return.
- Review the entire return before signing it.
- Make sure the preparer signs the form and includes his or her preparer tax identification number (PTIN).
You can report abusive tax preparers to the IRS on Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer. Download Form 14157 and fill it out or order by mail at 800-TAX FORM (800-829-3676). The form includes the address where it should be mailed.
For more info, see Tips for Choosing a Tax Return Preparer.