01/24/2022
This tax season, taxpayers will see one of the largest refunds to date.
With a surplus of newbie tax preparers, here’s a few things to remember when looking for someone to assist you in filing your taxes:
✅ Rates should NOT be percentage based. The government increased the CTC so more will see larger refunds. If your refund is increased, more than likely it’s because of the new credits. Just because you are getting $15k, doesn’t mean the person preparing them should get a percentage.
✅ Flat Rates - Every individuals’ taxes are different. A single w2 earner with no kids should not pay the same rate as a head of household homeowner with 2 dependents.
✅ If you do not pay for your income tax preparation upfront, please keep in mind that your preparer DOES NOT get paid until your return is processed completely. If the IRS holds your refund or uses them to offset a debt (such as student loans or child support), then a tax preparer can hold your tax documents if they are not paid.
✅ Work with an EXPERIENCED Professional. With all the changes due to COVID-19 and tax law updates, someone who has real experience and skin in the game is your best option. Tax Preparers who are new as of this season, may not be familiar with all the previous laws that were in effect prior to this year, which could result in inaccurate information on prior year filings and amendments.
✅ Taxes are not a seasonal thing that lasts a couple of months. Taxes last all year long. Make sure the preparer you chose will be available all year long to assist with responding to letters you may receive from the IRS after the end of the filing season. It’s serious there are changes almost monthly.
Last but certainly not least, every valid professional tax preparer must have a PTIN (at minimum) to file electronically. If you are working with an office that files tax returns electronically, they MUST have an EFIN. Make sure the bottom of your tax return (where you sign) DOES NOT say SELF PREPARED. If you went to a registered tax professional, their name and PTIN will be filed in the boxes by your signature. There are also rules put in place to make sure that standards are met.
All of our tax preparers at Highland Multi-Services have over 10 years of verifiable experience and a plethora of knowledge accessible to you. You can book your appointment with one of our certified professionals at