As we hit tax season you may see some places offering to prepare your tax returns. They'll take your money, but do you know how much training they've had?
"Some of these bigger firms hire people that have been doing taxes for six weeks or took a six-week study course," said Scott Wilson who is an enrolled agent.
He's passed a background check and a federal exam just so he can deal with the IRS on your behalf.
So, before you hire someone, Scott suggests you interview several different agents and bring in your old returns for a critique.
"Let them review it and see what they have to say about it," he suggested.
Scott says be careful of tax preparers who sell IRA's or refund loans. Those products aren't bad, but your first goal is to get your taxes done right.
"People that are trying to oversell you would really scare me," he said.
Remember, you are responsible for any errors on your return, so never sign a blank form.
To check the status of an enrolled agent, you need to contact the IRS office in Detroit. Either call them at 313-234-1280 or e-mail them at epp@irs.gov.
For consumer concerns, e-mail Jesse to getjesse@king5.com or call toll-free 877-51-JESSE. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/GetJesse.
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