Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thervo.
How much does tax preparation cost?
Professional tax preparation costs$100 to $500 per return on average, with most individuals spending about $220. While your geographical location may impact the fees, the biggest factors affecting the cost of your tax preparation are the complexity of your tax return and the type of professional you hire. Certified public accountants (CPAs) and tax attorneys typically charge more than Enrolled Agents or non-credentialed seasonal tax professionals.
Is it worth it to pay for tax preparation?
Paying a CPA or tax preparer to do your taxes may be worth it if you have a complex return or have new items or calculations on your taxes that you are not familiar with. If you run a business, buy a house, manage multiple properties, or do anything requiring more than a simple tax return, professional tax preparation can save you time, ensure the return is done correctly, and protect you in the event of an audit or issue.
What is a tax preparer?
A tax preparer is a professional who prepares and files income tax returns for individuals or businesses. While all tax preparers have a preparer tax identification number (PTIN), they have varying levels of education and credentials. The list below includes professionals who can prepare your taxes and represent you in front of the IRS if needed for audits, appeals, or anything related to your return.
Enrolled Agent (EA) – An EA is certified by the IRS and can prepare taxes anywhere in the United States.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – A CPA has education and licensing through the state in which they practice. CPAs
Attorney – A licensed tax attorney has passed a state bar exam and earned a law degree. A tax attorney may specialize only in tax preparation or offer several services.
Non-credentialed tax preparers include seasonal tax service employees and the IRS's voluntary Annual Filing Season Program participants. These professionals have a PTIN but may not have formal education or certifications and may not be able to represent you in front of the IRS.
How do I choose the best tax preparation service near me?
When searching for a tax preparation service near you, be sure to:
Compare preparation fees from at least three companies that are licensed, bonded, insured, and have been in business 5+ years.
Search the IRS's directory for a certified public accountant (CPA) or an Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP).
Check their licensing status and look for disciplinary actions against them.
Ask for a preparer tax identification number (PTIN).
Confirm the tax preparer can represent you for any related audits, payments, or collection issues.
Check out their reviews on Thervo and Google.
Avoid hiring a tax preparer who bases their fee on the size of your tax refund.
Confirm that the tax preparer will sign your return.
Never sign a blank tax return.
What questions should I ask when searching for tax preparation?
Asking the right questions can help you choose the best tax preparation service for your needs:
Are you licensed and insured?
What training and credentials do you have?
How long have you been preparing taxes?
Do you have a guarantee?
Can you represent me in front of the IRS if needed?
What kinds of returns can you prepare?
Do you file electronically?
How soon will I get my refund?
What do I need to bring with me to the appointment?
Reviews for Pacifica tax preparation services
Recent success stories from people in the Pacifica area.
Ivan A.
This is my second year using Uncle Sam's. I efiled this year and get my return by the next week. I even sent my neighbor and got $40 for the referral. See you next year, Frank.
Uncle Sam Tax Service
Jimmy C.
I had 7 years worth of unfiled taxes and I owed over $100k in back taxes. Now I owe the IRS nothing and I sleep like a baby
Norbie Gaerlan, CPA
O N.
very innovative thorough and informative
Turner Accounting & Technology Group
Julie B.
Alan is methodical, patient and asks lots of questions....which is exactly what I want in a tax preparer. I had A LOT of questions as I had a change in almost every category this year. My taxes are so complex, but I now have a better understanding of my self employment and how to keep my records straight. I am so thankful and I look forward to working with him again next year. He's a true professional.
Alan Steger
Pikake
Juliana has been doing my taxes for 7 years. She is very trustworthy and timely. She makes it very easy and she gets it done. She is very experienced and it is a painless process.
Compassion Tax Corporation
Nicole W.
It was tough to find someone in this city we felt I can trust that would know what to do with multiple state tax forms and wouldn't charge us an arm and a leg, but what mattered is that A&K has all 5 stars so I decided to give him a shot.
The office has fairly easy access and is near the downtown. As a CPA, he is knowledgable and NOT just one of those weekend course certified tax preparers at big tax service companies that kill you with fees.
Alex is fast, efficient, and most importantly honest! If he can find places for us to save (all within legal limits of course) he'll tell us.
No other tax place would go that length to help you understand this ever-changing tax.
The first time I came to him I was in transition from San Francisco to Hong Kong and he knew exactly how to handle all of my multiple forms including my CA state tax and foreign tax issues.
I wish I'd posted this review sooner but now that tax season is coming over I want to make sure you all knew how AMAZING this man is! If you are looking for someone who is fast, efficient, knowledgable, this is where you need to be!
Flex Tax and Consulting Group
-B.J.
They've gone out of her way to ensure that my business investments are running soundly.
ACCOUNT-ABILITY MATTERS
Brandon S.
Professional, easy to use, and fast service. It was a extremely pleasant experience and the knowledge and guidance received was invaluable.
It makes all the difference working with a consultant / advisor vs. “just a tax person”
First Tax Service
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Nearby tax preparation services in and around Pacifica