agrilifetoday / Flickr
This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.
This year’s tax deadline, April 17, is looming. Have you done your taxes, yet? If you’re opting to hire a tax professional to complete your taxes, I share 8 tips for finding a reliable tax preparer.
- Check the preparer’s history. You can check with the Better Business Bureau to see the ratings and complaint record on the preparer.
DonkeyHotey / Flickr
This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.
I know the last thing you want to think about during the holiday season is taxes. Alas, as the saying goes in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes – that’s why it’s prudent to start preparing now. I’ve compiled a list of things you need to do to save money on your taxes next year.
Feed your 401k – If you have an employer-based retirement plan make sure to max out your contributions especially if the company is
Ace negotiator Jim Camp says start with no. Credit: falardeau/Flickr
If you end up fighting the IRS over your 2010 tax returns, a skipped return from last year, or another reason why you can’t pay your tax bill in full, it is possible to negotiate a pay as you can plan. Get the best deal possible with these seven tips which I summarized from Jim Camp of Camp Negotiation Systems. His website is Start With No.
1. Do your homework. Instead of reinventing the wheel, gather information from others who have gone through what you are about to. Look for strategies, precedents and tips online, (including the IRS website). Know your rights and your obligations. Take details notes.
2. Schedule face time. When you call the IRS, don’t talk to whoever picks up. Make an appointment to meet with an agent face to face nearby. Don’t answer questions over the phone. Talking in person gives you
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Some 60 percent of Americans hire others to do their taxes for them, which means a lot of us are looking for a tax pro to hire right now. The March issue of ShopSmart, a magazine put out by Consumer Reports, shares five questions you should ask anyone you’re considering hiring.
1. What kinds of clients do you usually work with? Look for a preparer with clients similar to you.
2. What are your credentials? Look for a preparer who has passed recent state or federal tests and 7 to 10 years experience.
3. Will you file my returns electronically? Filing electronically ensures fewer mistakes and helps speed your refund.
4. Can you give me a price quote? Try to get a price quote by presenting last year’s forms. Ask for all fees and avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your refund.
5. Do you provide audit help? CPAs and enrolled agents can usually represent you before the IRS, but you might have to pay extra.
In case you missed these resources to file taxes for free:
If you make less than $49,000 you can get free tax preparation and e-filing through the IRS’ VITA program.
File your taxes for FREE through AARP, even if you’re not a senior.
No matter what your income, file your taxes for free online through the IRS’ Free File Fillable Forms.
And there are lots of coupon codes for tax software, like this tax software coupon for 25% off at H&R Block At Home.
There are plenty of ways to do your taxes yourself and not pay a dime, especially if you make less than $49,000 (see three ways to do this below). But if you are going to hire someone, here are nine tips from author and CPA Stacy Johnson to help you choose a tax pro.
For the last four of Stacy’s tips for choosing a tax pro, visit his site, MoneyTalksNews, and scroll down to below the video.
Resources to file taxes for free
If you make less than $49,000 you can get free tax preparation and e-filing through the IRS’ VITA program.
File your taxes for FREE through AARP, even if you’re not a senior.
No matter what your income, file your taxes for free online through the IRS’ Free File Fillable Forms.
And there are lots of coupon codes for tax software, like this tax software coupon for 25% off at H&R Block At Home.
