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VITA at Gies -- Take Charge of Your Taxes
Get up-to-date news on the VITA income tax program through Gies Business, including tips for your taxes and the schedule for the Gies VITA site at Salt & Light Urbana. Our VITA site will be open for services in February 2025. For more information about the program, visit https://go.gies.illinois.edu/VITA.

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  • Selecting a Paid Tax Professional

    Jan 23, 2025 10:00 am by Mandi AltHomepageTaxpayers
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    Unfortunately, the VITA program cannot help all taxpayers.   While we understand that this may be frustrating, our scope of service is dictated by the IRS, and we must follow the guidelines they provide.  If you need to seek additional assistance, here are some things to consider:

    What to Look For

    1. Credentials: Ensure the tax professional has the necessary credentials. Look for:
      • Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
      • Enrolled Agents (EAs)
      • Tax Attorneys
    2. Experience: Find out how long the professional has been preparing taxes and whether they have experience with your specific tax situation (e.g., self-employment, rental income, etc.).
    3. Reputation: Check for reviews and testimonials. Look at online reviews, ask for references, and check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints.  Friends and colleagues can also be a great source of information.
    4. Licenses and Professional Memberships: Having an active professional license and membership in professional organizations such as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) can indicate a commitment to professional standards and continuing education.  
    5. Fees: Understand how their fees are structured and how they compare to other professionals.

    Questions to Ask

    1. What are your qualifications?

      • Ensure they have the proper credentials and experience.

    2. How do you keep up with tax law changes?

      • A good professional stays updated with continuing education and training.

    3. What types of clients do you typically work with?

      • Ensure they have experience relevant to your specific tax situation.

    4. How do you determine your fees?

      • Understand their fee structure and what services are included.

    5. Will you represent me if I’m audited?

      • Make sure they can provide assistance in case of an audit.

    6. Can you provide references?

      • Speaking with other clients can provide insight into their reliability and service quality.

    7. What is your process for filing taxes?

      • Understand how they collect information, communicate with clients, and handle filings.

    How to Find a Tax Professional

    1. Referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations.
    2. Online Directories: Use directories from professional organizations, such as:
      • The IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications
      • The AICPA's Find a CPA directory
      • The National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) directory
      • Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation public accountant database
    3. Local Listings: Check local business directories, and community boards, or visit local tax preparation offices.
    4. Professional Organizations: Contact local chapters of professional organizations for recommendations.

    Interview

    You may download this blog post so that you have the questions handy when you interview a tax professional.

    For More Information

    Photo by Gustavo Fring

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