Regardless of which professional you choose, you'll need someone with the know-how and experience needed to help you make wise choices regarding your finances.
Which is which?
Attorneys specializing in complex tax, estate matters, and tax return filing, or IRS dispute resolution are tax attorneys. It's important that the tax attorney that you choose is well versed in IRS Problem Resolution as handling IRS Problems is quite different than planning tax strategies.
CPAs are accountants with college degrees and have passed the CPA exam. Audit work, accounting, and preparing tax returns are part of their responsibilities. When licensed, they can practice in all states. The CPA's capability to deal with the IRS comfortably depends on the training and experience he has undergone.
Enrolled agents aren't authorized to represent you in Tax Court. Their license is that of full-time tax preparers and advisors working with the IRS. They normally have five or more years experience working with the IRS, or passed an IRS exam.
The many aspects of the laws that govern the IRS are complicated and a good tax professional knows about them. Their know-how of the ammendments in tax laws are updated. They're experienced in dealing with the IRS with IRS collections and the resolution of tax debts.
How to Find a Good Tax Professional
Personal referrals
Tax preparer recommendation
Included in legal plans
Guarantee and assistance by audit preparer
Advertising
Associations
Direct solicitation
Things to Ask a Tax Professional
How much are you charging?
How long have you been in business?
Are you an attorney, CPA, or enrolled agent?
What are your licenses?
Do you have experience with the IRS?
What does your fee include?
Do you have a privacy policy?
Can you handle my situation?
Do you give itemized statements monthly?
Do you provide a written fee agreement?
Do you work on your own or do you delegate?
How many clients do you handle?
Can you handle tax issues?
Your tax professional should make you feel comfortable and let you communicate well. You must trust that they'd do their best for you. If you would like to consult with a professional well versed in IRS Problems, you can call Tampa Tax Attorney, Darrin T. Mish tollfree at (888) 438-6474 for a Free, Confidential Consultation about your IRS Problem.
