Anyone with an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) can prepare tax return for a client.
If you’re looking for someone to prepare your tax return you may use the services of a certified public accountant, an enrolled agent, an attorney, or any other persons who don’t have a professional credential or qualification.
However, you expect your preparer to be skilled in tax preparation, to accurately prepare your return and to handle with care your sensitive personal information. Therefore, the IRS recommends you choose a tax preparer wisely.
- Check the preparer’s qualifications.You may use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications.However, the directory includes only a list of tax preparers with credential and other qualifications.
- Check the preparer’s history.You should ensure that the tax preparer that you’re considering is registered and is in good standing.For enrolled agents, you may request a status verification to the IRS at epp@irs.gov.
For certified public accountants, you may check with the State Board of Accountancy where the preparer indicated that he or she is registered. If this is New York State, please check the Office of the Professions.
For attorneys, you should check the preparer’s status with the State Bar Association.