How is your fee determined?
Most tax-prep services have a set schedule of charges. Ask for an estimate.

What’s your turnaround time?
You want to be sure the firm can handle your return in time to meet the tax deadlines.

Who will be working on my return?
You want to know how many years the person has worked at the firm and whether they have had any problems with returns they completed.

How do you check the work?
Find out how the firm double-checks the math by the preparer.

What if you make a mistake?
Ask what happens if a mistake made by a preparer results in a penalty charge. Many larger firms guarantee their work and will pay the penalty if the error is theirs. But make sure you understand how a mistake is defined.

What’s your privacy policy?
You want to be sure that your sensitive information is secure and how you can opt out of any future marketing programs.

What if there’s IRS trouble?
If you face an audit, you’ll need a CPA, enrolled agent or tax attorney. Ask the service for the names of their referrals and check their credentials and reputations with the Better Business Bureau.

Want to Know More?

• What's a Tax-Prep Service?
• Should You Use a Tax-Prep Service?
• Choosing a Tax-Prep Service