| Ten Questions To Ask Your Tax Preparer | |
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Your tax preparer is an important member of your success team and should be selected carefully. In addition to working with someone you feel comfortable with, it is also important that they have the proper credentials, training and experience that enables them to provide expert financial guidance. |
| Tax Preparer Interview Questions | |
| Use the following questions to find a tax preparer who is capable, patient and explains carefully how you can make the most of your home-based business. | |
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1. |
How long have you had your tax preparation practice and what credentials and training do you have? |
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2. |
Describe your tax strategy or philosophy. |
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3. |
What inspires you to stay on top of your money and record keeping? |
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4. |
What other direct selling clients have you serviced and what is your impression of this form of doing business? |
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5. |
Do you provide your clients with an annual tax organizer? |
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6. |
Will you be doing my return or do you delegate it to a staff member? |
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7. |
Do you offer guidance with regards to keeping my records? |
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8. |
Do you have a rate schedule that outlines your fees for each service? |
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9. |
Is there a charge for phone consultations? If so, would you please provide a price list? |
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10. |
What can I expect from you as my tax preparer? |
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What The Answers Reveal |
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| Questions 1-3 give you a picture of the preparer's professional credentials, philosophies of accounting and their experience in Home-based Business taxation. Your tax preparer should have attained their professional credentials of CPA, or EA, . This combined with continuing education and involvement in professional organizations demonstrates their commitment to offering their clients expert guidance. Questions 4-7 provide you with a clear picture of what types of services they offer and additional benefits you can enjoy as their client. A qualified tax preparer with training in Home-based Business tax law demonstrates an interest in what is important to you. Questions 8-10 offer you specifics as to their fees and billing practices. It is important to be clear about their fees prior to entering into a business arrangement with your tax preparer, so don't be shy… ask! |
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| Questions To Ask Yourself | |
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Am I comfortable with this person? |
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Do they explain financial concepts in simple, everyday terms I can understand? |
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Are they asking me pertinent questions? |
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Are they a good listener? |
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