Don't leave money on the table. Hire a tax professional!!

According to the IRS, approximately 80 million US citizens will look to hire someone each year to file their income tax returns. But, the question most people ask is, "How much does it cost to hire a tax preparer?" I will answer that with another question; How much does it cost YOU, the individual taxpayer, the self-employed sole proprietor, or the small business owner, to NOT have your returns prepared and filed by an experienced professional?

There are a myriad of reasons why you should hire a tax pro this year, but I'll focus on some of the main ones that you should consider when making a decision.

Not Your Father's Income Tax Return

The days of the simplified tax code when everyone took the standard deduction are long gone. I get it. You've always done your own return, why should I need help now? Well, you are not single anymore living in a small apartment with a buddy that you work with and living on peanut butter and ramen noodles. If you are married, have children, are self-employed, run a small business, own investment property, or trade stocks, your return has probably gotten fairly complex, and you don't want to miss any deductions, credits, exemptions, or adjustments that will help lower your tax liability.

Time Is Money.... and....Taxes are the Law

Many of you call the appliance repair guy when your washing machine starts making that funny noise, or call an electrician to help install that new light over the dining room table. Why?? Because your time is valuable and can be spent on other things. But, more importantly, you don't want to make a mistake that costs you more money in the end. Tax law is just that, and since it changes every year, the IRS requires tax professionals to take many hours of continuing education each year, so they are informed and ready to assist you. A good tax professional will also look into the future and offer some good advice for future planning.

Don't "Hope For the Best", Expect the Best

The bottom line here is if you expect the best possible outcome (highest refund or lowest bill) you need to hire a tax professional not only to prepare your returns this year, but the good ones will always ask for last year's as well and check it for mistakes. I personally offer to review past three years (for a modest fee) for all new clients.

Don't waste your time this year. Local tax pros are sitting at their computers all night already. Why should you too?

Click here to contact Nelgco Tax Services and schedule a FREE consultation call.