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Looking for an Accountant? Six Characteristics To Look For.

The average national cost to have your taxes professionally prepared by an accountant is $200. Quite a bit of pocket change, to be honest; but, can you afford not to?

Most people miss at least $100 in deductions, which means that they pay too much money in for taxes and get too little back. This means that if you don't hire an accountant, it's going to cost you a lot.

Now that you know you should hire an accountant, here are six suggestions that can help you pick the right one:

1. Pick an accountant you're actually going to meet in person, and talk with him or her at some length. It's best not to go to a big chain where just about anyone can handle your taxes. You might need your accountant at some other point in the year besides just tax time, and typically, big chains hire accountants in just from January through April. During off-season, it's probably going to take more work than it's worth to get a few simple questions answered.

2. A big chain is going to cost you more in the end than an individual accountant will. Yes, big chains look like they charge less up front, but the fine print tells you that they can charge extra fees, such as for each deduction. They can also charge you to guarantee the accuracy of your taxes. An accountant you hire yourself will both guarantee the work done with no extra charge, and will give you better and more personal service for less money.

3. Check accountant credentials. You'll need a licensed professional to handle your taxes. This is because only a tax lawyer, CPA or EA can represent you in court. Most states (except for California or Oregon) don't require any specific licensing for anyone who is a "tax professional." Therefore, the person who did your taxes may not be able to represent you in court. Make sure your accountant has the proper credentials and can represent you in court if necessary.

4. Ask for references and referrals. Just as with your doctor or dentist, ask friends and family for referrals. It's one way to help guarantee that you'll get good service and will be satisfied with the results.

5. Expect good service. If calls are not returned or the accountant otherwise acts in an unprofessional manner, find someone else. Taxes are stressful enough without having to put up with unprofessional behavior from your accountant.

6. Be reasonable with your expectations. If you're not financially responsible or your records are a mess, your accountant can probably do only so much for you at tax time. Your accountant's performance depends in part on how organized and responsible you are yourself. Therefore, if you present your accountant with stellar records, expect pristine work in return. If you present your accountant with incomplete records or otherwise shoddy material, you should still expect the best performance possible, but it probably won't be perfect. Do take their advice if you're comfortable with them and trust them. They just might make your taxes easier the next time, too.

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About the Author: Delano Vestal writes for Lisa Baskfield and Associates, a CPA in Rogers MN. Lisa Baskfield and Associates excells in small business and personal accounting and tax prep. As a Rogers CPA, Baskfield serves the entire Twin Cities Metro and the I-94 Corridor To Saint Cloud.

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