Choosing the right tax preparer for your business is a decision best not left until April. A former tax preparer and small business mastermind offers insights into the secret world of tax preparers.
1. All tax preparers are not created equal.
It stands to reason, somewhere in the country is the Worst Tax Preparer. The bad news is you may have already booked your appointment with him. Preparing taxes is a complex activity. So complex that many of us simply throw in the towel, pack up our receipts, and head for the nearest tax office. When you arrive at the office, you fully expect our tax preparer to be highly competent and completely vested in getting you the best deal in town.
2. Tax preparers are not business experts.
3. Hiring a tax preparer doesn't mean you're excused from understanding taxes.
4. Your tax preparer shouldn't be the one telling you how your business is doing.
5. Getting your tax return prepared shouldn't be an errand you run on your lunch break.
6. Procrastination is your worst enemy.
Do yourself a favor, get your return done early. If you owe money, you don't have to send it until April 15th. At least you'll know that your return was prepared by a tax preparer who wasn't fatigued, you'll know ahead of time what you owe, and you'll have it off your mind so you can focus on other important things. Like getting your oil changed on your lunch break.