CHOOSING A TAX PREPARER
If you choose to have someone prepare your taxes, be sure to choose that preparer wisely. Ask questions and be sure to obtain thorough answers. Even if you hire a tax preparer, remember that you, the taxpayer, are ultimately the one that is legally responsible for your tax return.

Choose carefully when hiring a third part to prepare your income tax return. While most preparers are honest, trustworthy individuals/businesses, there are the unscrupulous few out there trying to take advantage of people.

If you have chosen to hire outside help from a third party income tax preparer, you want to be sure to review the return carefully yourself and confirm the accuracy of the return. Any third part income tax return preparer is required to sign the return and fill in their information on the income tax return form. Although their signature is required, again, be aware that you, the taxpayer, are ultimately responsible for what is on the tax return. Be sure that any tax preparer gives you a copy of your income tax return and that you retain that return in your records.

Do not sign the income tax return prepared by the third party preparer until you have thoroughly reviewed the return, checked for accuracy and ensured that everything is correct and true. Then, upon complete review, be sure to sign the return.
Never be afraid to ask the third party preparer questions. They should have no problem answering any and all questions that you put forth. An honest tax preparer is there to help you!