Tax Tip: How to Choose Right Tax Preparer
Most people pay someone to do their taxes for them. But, as one expert points out, there are plenty of mistakes people make when choosing a tax preparer.
"I think the biggest one is somebody who guarantees you a refund. I mean without seeing your material. That's a mistake," says tax expert Kevin McCormally with Kiplingers.
"Somebody will go in and say I can get you a refund of $5,000 if you give me $500 of it. Never work with somebody who promises you a refund," he added.
McCormally also advises filers to not work with a tax preparer who's willing to fudge some of their numbers.
Read More: Avoiding the Alternative Minimum Tax
"I've known of preparers who will say, 'You know, why don't we put down that you took a class last year to improve your job skills,' and the taxpayer said, 'But I didn't,' and they said, 'Well, the IRS will never catch you,'" he tells ABC News Radio.
Another tip to keep in mind: It's illegal for a tax preparer to charge you a percentage of your refund. You also want to avoid anyone who doesn't have a Preparer Tax Identification Number.