The IRS estimates that 60% of taxpayers use paid preparers. If you regularly turn to a tax pro to prepare your return—or if you have just decided you want to work with one—here are some tips for finding the right person for your situation.
Types of Tax Return Pros
You can have anyone—your uncle, your neighbor, or your best friend—prepare your tax return. But if you’re paying for this service, the person must be registered with the IRS and have a current preparer tax identification number (PTIN), which is an IRS number issued annually to eligible preparers.