IRS Urges Taxpayers to Choose Return Preparers Wisely

As the tax filing season deadline approaches, the Internal Revenue Service, IRS is reminding taxpayers to select who will prepare their 2016 federal tax return carefully. 

A statement from IRS said that with the filing deadline on Tuesday, April 18, "appointments with some tax professionals may be limited. 

"A reputable preparer will ask to see a taxpayer’s records and receipts and can help file an extension to give the taxpayer time to collect any missing documents," it added. 

The IRS urged taxpayers to avoid fly-by-night preparers who may not be available after April 18 and suggests checking the return preparer’s qualifications and history.  

The IRS Choosing a Tax Professional page has information about tax preparer credentials and qualifications. The IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help taxpayers identify local preparers by type of credential or qualification.

All paid tax preparers must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number. They must sign the return and include their PTIN. Ask about fees before providing personal financial records and receipts. Review the return and ask questions before signing it.