Each year as the calendar creeps closer to April 15, people scramble to complete their taxes on time. Trying to figure out what each form means, how deductions come into play and where your hard-earned money really went can be a daunting process for those not well-versed in tax preparation procedures. That’s why many people inevitably weigh the pros and cons when it comes to deciding whether to take on taxes on their own.
Taking our Tax Preparation Career Diploma program may give you the skills and understanding you need to fill out tax forms correctly and easily. As a bonus, filing your own taxes can save you hundreds of dollars. But even so, you may still decide to hire an outside source to help. Should you attempt this endeavor on your own or hire a professional? Here are a few ways to help you make the right decision.
- Do you have time and patience?
Filling out your tax forms takes time and patience. If you’re someone who gets frustrated easily or agitated by tedious work and organizational tasks that require attention to detail, doing your own taxes may not be best for you. Instead, hire a professional who can go through each form line by line, sift through your receipts and make sense of your previous year’s finances. Proper documentation assures you’ll get the maximum tax refund you deserve, too.
- Are your taxes complex?
Having dependents, mortgages and loans increases the complexity of filing taxes. All these factors, plus investments, rental properties and changes in familial status such as marriage or divorce must be accounted for when you file. This can add up to mounds of paperwork and sophisticated calculations. If you lack the confidence or the mathematical expertise to ensure accuracy, leave it to an expert.
- Do you know the ins and outs of tax code?
Tax law is continually changing to keep up with new state and federal legislation. Those who have taken tax preparation courses learn and understand the differences between last year’s and the current year’s tax codes and what the current rules and regulations are. Those who are not so familiar may find themselves confused or may end up failing to comply with the current rules simply because they are not up to speed. In order to get the most money returned – and hey, who doesn’t want that – and keep the IRS off your back, being well versed in the latest tax information is a must!
Prepare to file your taxes with confidence. Call an Admissions Advisor at 1-800-957-5412 or enroll online today.
