Is online tax prep a good idea or does it pose a risk you can’t afford to take? Take a closer look.
Online tax prep is undoubtedly a popular choice, but is it always the best choice? There are dozens of handy programs allowing users to prepare and file their taxes online without professional help. Many people use these programs because they think hiring a professional accountant is either unnecessary or too expensive. However, the fact is that hiring a professional is often your best option if you want to save time, money and hassle.
Preparing Taxes Online Isn’t as Easy as It Looks
Companies and individuals use online tax calculators to prepare their taxes because the programs are often available for free through online tax filing companies. However, these calculators aren’t 100% accurate. They only provide estimates of how much you may get back when you file your taxes.
It’s also easy to make mistakes when filing your taxes online. No computer program is perfect. You can easily miss information, which means you’ll have to go back and add it in. On the other hand, you may type in the wrong information without realizing it. If this happens, you may wind up having to redo your entire tax form. In a worst-case scenario, the IRS may decide to audit your return.
You Could Be Missing Out on Refunds without Professional Tax Preparation
Would you like to get the most substantial refund possible? The only way to ensure you will get it is by availing yourself of professional tax assistance. Unlike computer programs, an accountant will focus solely on your paperwork. The accountant will ask detailed questions about your personal and business income. He or she will look over your finances and tell you what you need to do to qualify for a particular refund or deduction.
Additionally, a tax prep expert will be familiar with the IRS’s ever-changing tax laws. The New Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for instance, impacts nearly every single individual and business in the United States. However, like many tax laws, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is complex. It is 400 pages long, making it difficult if not impossible for the average person to understand. Even so, this piece of legislation could enable you to save a lot of money on your taxes. This is especially true if you work with a professional who understands the new laws.
Why Work with Incompass Tax, Estate and Business Solutions?
Incompass offers tax preparation and other financial services in Northern California. The following are some of the many reasons you may want to consider working with us:
- We provide not only tax preparation but also other critical financial services under one roof.
- We operate year-round and are available when you need us most.
- We have been serving the local area for almost 30 years. Our team members are competent and experienced.
- We offer attentive and friendly customer service.
If you are looking for tax prep assistance you can count on, get in touch with us at your convenience. We take on clients with both simple and complex financial situations. Our expert tax team offers comprehensive yet affordable help that can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. With professional help, you don’t have to dread the upcoming tax season. Instead, you can look forward to the funds you will earn once you finish filing your tax forms early next year.