Individual Tax Preparation

Find a tax preparer near Charlotte, NC

Find a tax preparer near Charlotte, NC

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Top 10 Tax Preparers near Charlotte, NC

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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 Charlotte tax preparers
Thumbtack Customer
Bernice provided us with extremely thorough and informative tax services this year. She is a very knowledgable tax preparer with a great level of professionalism and we will be using her as our regular tax accountant.
Stephens Tax & AccountingStephens Tax & Accounting
Mark T.
Received a quick consultation to prepare for next year taxes. Very knowledgeable regarding real estate and maximizing tax breaks with depreciation and other items. Will definitely be in touch next year.
Simple Tax CPASimple Tax CPA
Wanda L.
Are you Looking for a tax preparer; then I highly recommend Ms. Harrell. She is very professional but still personable; she stayed in contact with us and our taxes were done timely; I will be using her in the future..
K Harrell's Financial Services, IncK Harrell's Financial Services, Inc
Portia Y.
Working with Carolyn was a pleasure. She was detail oriented, highly professional and skilled. She explained tax laws and options. I would definitely recommend hiring Woodson-Clarke for tax preparation. I will use her services again.
Woodson-Clarke, PLLCWoodson-Clarke, PLLC
Thumbtack Customer
Bernice prepared my individual tax forms for federal and three states. She was thorough and able to answer all my questions. Great experience!
Stephens Tax & AccountingStephens Tax & Accounting
Kate M.
From response time to FaceTime interview- Austin was professional. Prepared and filed my taxes quickly and efficiently. Will refer all my friends and family
Jackson Tax ServiceJackson Tax Service
Thumbtack Customer
Bernice is VERY personable, but very thorough in getting the job done. She will ask questions and makes sure that nothing is missed for tax purposes. Bernice is very attentive to your situation and highly recommend her for all your tax related issues and preparation.
Stephens Tax & AccountingStephens Tax & Accounting
Bianca H.
I highly recommend working with Shelvin for all of your tax advising/preparation needs. I really appreciate that he provides a checklist of what documents to gather and a secure online portal to send those documents/receipts. He filed my taxes relatively quickly and advised me of some additional measures I can take for the next tax filing season. Shelvin provided thorough responses over text and email. We barely had to talk on the phone, which makes my life much easier as a busy, working professional. I believe that Shelvin maximized my refund in comparison to what I could do on my own.
Professional Accounting & Tax Consulting, Inc.Professional Accounting & Tax Consulting, Inc.
Brent C.
Working with Speed Group, LLC was convenient and thorough. Tyran answered all my questions, and he communicated with professionalism and ease. Tyran possesses a wealth of knowledge in taxation and accounting laws. My tax preparation was completed accurately and in a timely manner. I would definitely be utilizing his services going forward.
Tyran Speed, CPATyran Speed, CPA
John S.
Where do I begin? I found an unknown, to me, tax preparer from Texas through Thumbtack. JCM Tax Service. They were available with flexible hours, were a great tax explainer, a wonderful tax instructor, with answers to all of my questions - no matter how small or large or detailed, and no matter how trivial or involved the question. My bravados and accolades could go on for a long time but, I don’t want to overdo it. Yet how can I help it when I find someone this good. I had wondered how everything would work out with me in a more complicated financial situation this year, and with little experience in or interest in taxes, other than paying them, and being remote - a long distance from Texas, yet everything worked out fantastically through emails, text messages, and without ever having to call on the phone. It was an easy dream come true and far from the nightmare I envisioned. The documents were completed and reviewed and sent electronically without a glitch. All those years that tax time was dreaded. Now, for me at least, it’s Jeannine Micenheimer of JCM Tax Service. It all turned out to be interesting and even fun. I learned a lot and I’m all the better for it.
JCM TAX SERVICESJCM TAX SERVICES
Troy R.
Edin was very responsive and punctual. We planned on meeting after 5pm on a Friday, however, he accommodated last minute to meet me around 3pm. Process was very easy and stress-free. Gave me great tips to prepare for tax filing throughout the year. Would recommend to friends and family 10/10 times and will be filing with him next year. Thanks, Edin!
Maximum Accounting and Tax ServicesMaximum Accounting and Tax Services
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