Tax Tip Tuesday: Do your homework

Tax Tip #2: Find a trusted tax preparer

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Last week’s tax tip was to wait for all of your W-2’s to come in the mail before filing.

This week, we’re talking tax preparers!

According to the IRS, 57% of U.S. taxpayers use a paid tax preparer.

Whether its a CPA, an attorney or an enrolled agent, it’s important to find someone you trust.

IRS special agent, Brian Watson, suggests doing your homework on the front end.

1. Ask your friends and neighbors, which tax preparers have been in the community for a long time?
2. Who do you trust?
3. Who has a good reputation?
4. Who’s going to be there during the summer if you get a letter from the IRS?

Watson said, “A good tax preparer will go over the return with you line by line and answer every question."

Even though someone else prepares your return, the taxpayer is ultimately responsible in the end.

To avoid owing fees and penalties make sure to ask your preparer lots of questions.