The truth seems to be that the code will continue to mushroom and the IRS will continue to enforce the code in the same manner we have become accustomed to. Oh, the agents will smile more, but I dont think the sheep cares if the wolf is smiling or not... This nation needs more and more money to operate and the IRS is their way to collect that money. Be realistic, the IRS is here to stay.

"What about a flat tax?" you ask. Never say I ! A simple flat tax on income is not possible. If you want a million reasons just email or call me (after tax season). Let me just say that the code necessary to implement even a hint of a flat tax would increase the current code, not simplify it, and some group will always feel that they got the shaft. So with all that said let's move right along.

We have been preparing personal income taxes for clients in one manner or another for twenty-four years. We are a local accounting and tax preparation firm but our clientele range continues to spread all over the state, and all over the country as well. Currently we are projecting we will prepare personal taxes for approximately 1800 clients this year. With the advent of the internet, free tax preparation software, home computers, and the obvious push to aid a client in the preparation of their own taxes.... our business still continues to grow.

Why do I need a tax preparer?

The truth is you don't. There are definite advantages to having someone prepare your taxes but the government is all for you doing your own income tax return. Your tax return is designed to make self-preparation easier. But the forms and the process are designed to make you error in the favor of the IRS. The overwhelming odds are that if you make an error it will be an error that costs you, not them.

Having a professional prepare your taxes gives you some advantages that we find bring our clients back year after year. I could list a bunch of reasons to have a professional prepare your tax return but the reasons are obvious. I will say that a tax preparer can prove to be a wise investment. But as with any profession, tax preparers range from highly competent to barely effective.

If you decide to use a professional to prepare your taxes, the best advice is to determine what services you need and find someone who can deliver those services. We still get the majority of our new clients from referrals. Talk to your friends and associates about the service they get from their tax preparer. Ask questions, be curious and learn what you can about someone you are considering trusting to prepare your taxes. The relationship between you and someone who prepares your taxes is likely to continue for many years to come.