Choosing the right tax professional can save you money, time, and stress. Before hiring someone to prepare your taxes, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are seven essential ones to consider when working with a tax preparation service.
1) Are You an Enrolled Agent or CPA?
Tax professionals vary in their qualifications. Enrolled Agents (EAs) and Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are licensed to represent you before the IRS. Always ask questions about their credentials to ensure you’re working with a properly qualified expert.
2) How Do You Stay Updated on Tax Law Changes?
Tax laws change frequently. A reliable expert should stay current through IRS updates and continuing education.
3) Do You Offer Year-Round Support?
Taxes aren’t just something that happens once a year during tax season. It’s important to ask if they offer guidance and support beyond just filing your annual return, such as assistance with audits or help with quarterly tax planning throughout the year. Our bookkeeping services are designed to help clients stay organized and well-prepared all year long, ensuring you’re never caught off guard when tax time arrives.
4) How Do You Determine Your Fees?
Some professionals choose to charge a fixed fee for each form they complete, while others prefer to bill their clients based on the number of hours they spend working on the services provided. It is extremely important to inquire clearly and upfront about all potential fees and charges before moving forward with any service. This way, you can prevent any unexpected surprises or hidden costs from arising later in the process, ensuring a smooth and transparent transaction from start to finish.
5) Can You Help With Small Business Taxes?
If you are a business owner, it is essential to confirm that the tax professional you choose has extensive experience with various business-related tax matters, including business deductions, payroll management, and regulatory compliance. Understanding these areas is crucial to ensuring your business remains financially healthy and meets all legal requirements. To gain a deeper understanding of how we can assist you, please explore more about our comprehensive payroll services, designed to support your business needs effectively.
6) Do You Provide Audit Support?
In the event of an IRS audit, it is absolutely crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced professional by your side who can effectively represent you throughout the entire complex process. Before hiring anyone, it is essential to thoroughly verify their credentials and confirm that they are properly authorized and fully qualified to act on your behalf during an IRS audit. Taking this important step not only provides you with valuable peace of mind but also helps ensure that your interests are well protected and advocated for throughout every stage of the audit.
7) What Other Services Do You Offer?
A good tax professional can offer much more than simply handling your tax filing needs. From providing expert business consulting services to managing bookkeeping and payroll tasks, their comprehensive support plays a crucial role in ensuring your long-term financial health and stability. This well-rounded assistance helps you make informed decisions and maintain smooth financial operations throughout the year.
Work With a Trusted Tax Expert
Asking the right questions is absolutely essential when it comes to ensuring that you select the very best tax professional who genuinely meets your unique needs and long-term financial goals. At Henriquez Accounting, we take great pride in combining extensive expertise with highly personalized service that is carefully tailored to the individual circumstances of each client. Additionally, we offer comprehensive, year-round support to provide you with the most reliable, effective, and thoughtful tax assistance possible throughout the entire year.
Last updated: August 30, 2025
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