Individual Tax Preparation

Find a tax preparer near Baltimore, MD

Find a tax preparer near Baltimore, MD

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Top 10 Tax Preparers near Baltimore, MD

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

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.  

Is it better to have a CPA do your taxes?

Hiring a certified public accountant (CPA) could be a better option instead of doing your taxes by yourself, but it depends on your tax situation and preferences. Having a CPA do your taxes is usually recommended if you have a business or any type of side job, or if you’ve been contacted by the IRS for a tax-related matter. Others who can benefit are those who own rental properties or have many assets. You can also hire a CPA if you need help understanding what deductions or credit you might qualify for.

Is it worth it to pay someone to do your taxes?

There are several reasons it could be worth it to have an experienced professional do your taxes instead of self-filing. For example, it can help reduce the chance of you making a mistake that could land you in trouble with the IRS. And, it could save you time for other important tasks. If you have a side job, rental property or many assets, having someone do your taxes can pay off in the short- and long-run.

Contact several tax professionals near you to discuss your needs and get free estimates. Then, decide if hiring a pro is right for you.

What is a tax preparer called?

A tax preparer can take the form of several different job titles, but they must have an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) to be authorized to prepare federal tax returns, according to the IRS. Some titles may include enrolled agents, who are licensed by the IRS, as well as certified public accountants (CPAs). Some tax attorneys may offer tax preparation and planning services, though not all are qualified to do this.

Do tax preparers offer remote or virtual services?

Contact local CPAs or tax professionals to see if they can offer their services without in-person contact. Many firms can operate remotely or virtually, and others that typically operate face-to-face may be changing their procedures to keep up with social distancing guidelines. 

How much do accountants charge for tax help?

On average, individual tax preparation services cost $242, and prices typically range from $137- $454. However, many factors can impact how much an accountant will charge you for tax assistance. For an accurate price estimate, request quotes from several certified public accountants (CPAs) near you. 

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.

Reviews for Baltimore tax preparers
Damon B.
Tax preparation! Fast and easy.
Green Financial Services, LLCGreen Financial Services, LLC
Paul A.
Tax preparer was very helpful answering questions. Very professional & affordable.
SCN Accounting and Tax ServicesSCN Accounting and Tax Services
Thumbtack Customer
Daniel Dutterer, CPA Is very experience with tax preparation. He patience and willing to help his customers.
Daniel E. Dutterer, CPADaniel E. Dutterer, CPA
Taylor h.
Pleasant, patient and carefully helped me prepare a DC tax return that had a lot of different parts.
The Brockington Firm, LLCThe Brockington Firm, LLC
Gift O.
This past tax season I had a number of life events that would impact my taxes: getting married, having a child, owning a small business, becoming a homeowner which changed the state I was paying taxes in. Because of all of that we decided it would be best to get an actual tax preparer instead of doing them ourselves online. One of the things that made me go with Green Financial Services (aside from the stellar reviews) was Shaunte’s impressive response time and her patience answering and explaining the slew of questions I had. Her wealth of knowledge put me at ease and made me feel comfortable moving forward. Turnaround time for the preparation of our taxes was unbelievably quick—I think it only a few days, which was impressive given the work load I’m sure she has during tax season. She explained our tax outcomes, the new tax laws and how to move forward in this upcoming tax year. I had a great experience with Shaunte and have peace of mind that our taxes were handled care.
Green Financial Services, LLCGreen Financial Services, LLC
Jessica R.
Shaunte was amazing. She responded very promptly to my (multiple) questions, answered them fully, and did a great job preparing our taxes. She saved us a lot of money, and in fact we then hired her to review our taxes from last year which she did and saved us money there as well.
Green Financial Services, LLCGreen Financial Services, LLC
Charise W.
Tax times can be quite stressful and can maybe even have you lose a bit of sleep. Not with these two professionals! Armani was very quick with getting in touch for a consultation and got straight to business. It's awesome that the organization had a safe and secure portal for you to submit your sensitive documents. Which is key since we are working remotely together! Impressive! After my last experience with 'Big Name' tax preparers...but poor results, I will definitely recommend the services that I've received. I'd never heard of Edward's Generational Tax Sevices...now I won't forget them!
Edwards FinancialEdwards Financial
Joshua S.
I used Mr. Bridges to prepare my taxes because, mine are slightly different than standard and last year i made some mistakes. Mr. Bridges was quick to prepare everything once I gave him all the information required. Further his rates were better than other on here. I would definitely consider using him again. I have nothing negative to say.
Bridges and Associates, CPA'sBridges and Associates, CPA's
Bridget N.
Shaunte was absolutely amazing! I had a fairly complex situation and she was able to efficiently explain and prepare my taxes. She was extremely professional and responsive and answered all of the questions I had. She went above and beyond and I would highly recommend working with her!
Green Financial Services, LLCGreen Financial Services, LLC
TASHA H.
Philip communicated with me through the entire process of preparing my taxes. He answered all my questions. It was not just yes or no answers but explanations of why. Philip is highly recommended and I see why. Thank you for all the hard work you put in and making this process easy.
Philip GreylingPhilip Greyling
Marc B.
I had a great experience with Blue Chip Financial Services. I asked Robert to complete my federal return and two different state returns for one tax year. Once he knew what I wanted, he set up a way for me to safely and conveniently share my tax information. Then he got to work. I thought he would be crunched for time (my fault, not his), but there was no need to worry--he prepared and filed my returns quickly, easily making the filing deadline. This was the first year I did not stress about my taxes. Thanks, Robert and Blue Chip Financial Services.
Blue Chip Financial Services - CPABlue Chip Financial Services - CPA
Aretha W.
I chose Green Financial Services, LLC because of the impeccable reviews that I read prior to hiring services. Ms. Green is very knowledgeable, professional, and punctual as we arranged for her to meet with us at our house. After collecting our tax documents she prepared them in a timely fashion.
Green Financial Services, LLCGreen Financial Services, LLC
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