There is a tremendous amount of variability within the accounting industry. Although the training is somewhat formalized, accountant positions can be in a business setting, in a governmental position, or even working for an individual. There are accountants whose primary role is tied to taxes, while other never ever file returns. Finding someone to file your taxes is one thing, but locating a quality tax accountant is another task altogether. When searching for a tax accountant, it is important to determine if they are authorized by the IRS to file your tax information electronically through the Internet. There are people trained to prepare tax returns, but that does not mean they are licensed accountants practicing in the field of accounting. Those who are authorized by the IRS undergo background checks, including fingerprinting, review of personal tax records, and interviews of regional officials regarding the applicant’s business record. It is recommended that you meet with several accountants before deciding on which tax accountant you use. When you make an appointment with the accountant, you should ask if the initial consultation is free. An accountant that understands the business aspect of his field should meet with you without charging a fee. When you meet with the candidates, have a list of questions ready, including: (1) “How long have they been a tax accountant?” and (2) “Have they or any of their clients ever been audited?” If they do not look comfortable when answering these types of questions, they may not be very experienced. Researching the tax accountants you will be interviewing is always a good idea. During the interview they may be quite professional, but it is the information that they don’t tell you that can help you make your decision. Performing a simple search on the Internet for “tax accountant” or for the company by name could tell you whether they have had any legal action against them in the past or if prior clients have left any negative reviews on websites. Likewise, the Internet could contain positive reviews of the tax accountants you are interviewing. This research will help you when it is time to make your decision. Finding a tax accountant you can trust with your financial information is a difficult process, and once you find them you will want to be able to trust them completely. However, you are still responsible for the information they prepare for the IRS on your behalf. Before signing any documents the tax accountant puts in front of you, read them over to see if they are accurate. If something does not seem correct to you, ask questions. Remember that it is your signature going on those forms verifying that the information is accurate.

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