Because I have been preparing tax returns for over 40 year I am often asked, "how does someone select a tax preparer?"

There are thousands of CPA's, enrolled agents, attorneys, and registered tax preparers who advertise on TV and the internet claiming they can 'prepare' your taxes. With the knowledge that I have gained in 40 years, I would tell you that I would select my tax preparer using the following three criteria:

1. How long has your potential tax preparer been preparing taxes and how many tax returns does he/she prepare each year? Anything less then 5 years and 300 returns per year is a negative. I have prepared taxes for over 40 years and prepare approximately 1,500 tax returns each year.
2. How many IRS audits has the potential preparer been involved in and what was the outcome? Anything less than 100 audits is a negative. I have extensive experience dealing with the IRS and have very successfully represented taxpayers in IRS audits for over 38 years.
3. Is your potential tax preparer aggressive on your behalf? If he/she has the knowledge of taxes and has dealt with the IRS, but is not trying to get you all of your deductible expenses, what good is he/she?

In other words, get all of the tax deductible items you are entitled to by talking to a competent and knowledgeable preparer who is on your side. The tax preparer should ask you detailed involved questions to get all of your qualified deductions on your tax return. Never forget that taxes are just one piece of your overall financial health. To be financially healthy you need to find more than just a tax preparer. You need a specialist with experience who can guide you though the many financial questions and issues which may arise over the course of your life.

You get what you pay for so find the right tax expert and you will save a lot more in taxes then you will pay him/her in fees.

Why Should I Choose Neal Reitz & Company? (click to find out)