Who can file my taxes?

Any individual with a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) is eligible to file your income taxes on your behalf. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they will be the best candidate to provide the help you need with your income tax preparation. The IRS explains that CPAs, attorneys and enrolled agents are all allowed to legally represent their clients before the IRS. They have a more thorough understanding of tax code than an individual operating solely with a PTIN or an Annual Filing Season Program participant who provides their services on a volunteer basis. Consider the complexity of your tax return and what level of expertise you’ll require. Before entrusting someone with your private financial and personal information, do some research on their qualifications. The IRS has a searchable database where you can verify the background and credentials of your income tax preparation professional. Once you have selected someone, ask about their service fees and confirm their availability. Then provide them with all the documentation they require, including W-2s, 1099s and more. Always ask to review the paperwork before it is submitted, and never sign a blank tax return.

How much does it cost to get taxes done?

Hiring a professional to help with income tax preparation can be priceless. Pro help can mean no mistakes and a maximized tax return. The cost to get your income taxes done depends on the professional you hire. Tax attorneys or in-demand CPAs will often have the highest rates for their services. Next in the pricing tier are enrolled agents, who will usually have higher rates than individuals solely working with a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). Nationally, the average cost of income tax preparation ranges from $150 to $190. Income tax preparation prices can also vary based on where you live and the complexity of your tax returns. Here are some examples of average income tax preparation prices from an enrolled agent:

Taxpayers filing only a W-2 tax form: $50.
Taxpayers filing a W-2 along with additional tax forms such 1099-INT and 1098-E: $150.
Taxpayers with several tax forms and one or two additional considerations such as a rental property, investment transactions, K-1 income, 1099-MISC or a simple small business: $225.
Taxpayers with multiple activities (rentals, K-1 income, small business, etc.), several stock transactions and more: $395.

Nationally, the average hourly rate nationally for a tax prep professional ranges between $150 and $450.

Thomas A.

Verified review

I used online tax preparation software to file my taxes and made a number of important and costly mistakes. I met with Paul to file federal and state amendments. He was very prompt and professional; everything was taken care of within 3 days of reaching out to Paul. He did a great job explaining things and even helped me prepare for next year's tax season. Most importantly, I ended up having to pay less than 1/2 of what I originally thought I owed in taxes.

Candice H.

My decision to hire StarAct LLP to handle my bookkeeping and to provide guidance to help maintain the overall health of my business, is one of the best decisions I have made since opening my business two years ago. I have had two other accountants who made huge mistakes with my books, were afraid of technology or were just plain unresponsive. Roland reached out to me right away when I posted my request on Thumbtack. He had positive reviews and a background check which are excellent signs. I am a Thumbtack vendor so I KNOW what to look for. He even went so far as to drive to my location in New Jersey from the Bronx to show me that he was serious about gaining my business. Roland got to work right away on assessing the condition of my books and had solutions within days. He is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of bookkeeping and tax preparation and has already helped me save money! StarAct uses the latest technology which makes it so easy for me to do my small part in the bookkeeping process. Within three weeks, StarAct had my 2015 books cleaned up and ready for tax time AND Roland came out to my location once again to review the books with me. The partners in this firm are all very well-educated and have a thriving accounting firm. Yet, they treat every client the same and make you feel like you are their most important client. They pride themselves on their level of service and responsiveness. Their rates are reasonable and fair. Based on StarAct's level of service, knowledge and responsiveness, my husband and I have decided to retain StartAct to handle our personal tax preparation and my husband plans to use StarAct for his own business as well. I would give StarAct 10 stars if I could!

Patricia J.

For the past 3 years Duan Pride with Diamond Tech Solutions has handled my LLC and taxes. I was very nervous when tax time rolled around but Diamond Tech Solutions worked with me to assure that I had all the documents needed to process. This company is very thorough, detailed, and professional in every aspect of working with their clients. I no longer get all stressed out when tax time rolls around because I know that I am in good hands. Duan Pride and Diamond Tech Solutions is a 5 starâ¦â¦â¦â¦

Mary S.

Miguel is personable, professional, easily accessible, highly tech savvy, and very thorough. He was very patient with my questions. I am looking forward to continuing to work with him for my business and personal tax preparations and filings.

Lisa B.

Kim was a pleasure to work with and extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of tax returns. She was able to maximize my deductions and I will be returning to her year after year for my tax needs

Olga V.

Nicole knows her stuff and will not steer you wrong. She has done a great job with my taxes and made even took time to explain everything to me. She is a great accountant and also a good person. Thank you so much

Vito L.

I was looking for a Tax Return Preparer on line and I saw the name of Linda Eicholz in a list of Accountants. I got an appointment; she revised all my files; spent time listening and then she proceeded with filing my Tax Return. I am very satisfied for her work. I found Linda to be friendly and very knowledgeable. Vito Lombardi

Terrance F.

I've worked with Fred Towles and The Towles Group for more than 10 years. He has been a very resourceful contact for various accounting and business projects. Most recently, he assisted me with responding to letters received by the IRS regarding one of my businesses. Fred is knowledgeable, responsive to concerns and goes above expectiations to ensure the job gets done. I highly recommend Fred Towles and The Towles Group Inc.

Kimberly B.

A few years ago, I met Deb Prior through a mutual business contact. Since then, I have not looked back. It is difficult to find someone who takes the time to learn about you, how best to work with you and understands your idiosyncrasies. Deb's firm, also modest in size, is well equipped to provide solid tax/bookkeeping services to any company who may inquire. Deb is a good listener, diplomatic, supportive and thoughtful. It is these qualities, and more, that make Deb Prior an ideal match for any business owner looking for such a person and firm. Deb Prior is a consistently strong tax preparer/bookkeeping whose goal is to not only meet and exceed the expectations of her clients, but to ensure that the client fully understand the "whys and hows" of her process. Any firm looking to make a change need not look any further. Any investment made in Deb Prior is money well spent.

Julie S.

Ibanessa is a pleasure to work with. I have been a customer for several years. She prepares our personal taxes and assists with my small business as well. She is organized, efficient and professional.

William M.

When it comes to making tax season pain free Michael Schonig delivers. Been with him for three tax seasons so far and definitely utilizing him next year. Keeps records well, checks against past returns in case we forget something, and works with our crazy schedule. Of the two certainties in life, death and taxes he will take care of the later.

Adam H.

Mitch was a great resource. I called Mitch to ask him some questions about possible amendments to my 2015 tax return. Mitch spent 20 minutes with me talking through my options all before agreeing to a fee for his services or formal contract. In the end we determined that his services may not benefit me greatly and explained what alternative steps to take. If I ever need this help again in the future I will definitely seek out his services.

Beth D.

Robert has been a great help to me in handling my business financial needs. He has prepared my corporate return for several years. He is a pleasure to work with and a proficient accountant!

Jermaine A.

I have been using this company for over 9 years now for yearly tax need. since using mallett CPA, LLC I have never bin audit by the IRS and always get and great return so I would highly recommend using them ..

Jenn W.

Michael was excellent. He answered all my questions in a timely manner and gave us suggestions for future filling. Tax season is stressful and he took the stress out of it for us. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an experienced tax preparer!

Elaine E.

Having your taxes prepared can sometimes feel very intimidating. Lisa put us at ease with her attention to detail and professionalism. She took the time to answer our questions and made some very valuable suggestions to help us maximize our tax deductions. We have recommended Lisa to many of our friends and business associates. You should give her an opportunity to assist you with your tax needs. You won't be disappointed!!

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