Choosing the Right Tax Advisor – What Should I Look For?

[susanmark]

Hello everyone.

I’m looking for a reliable tax advisor to help with personal and possibly small business taxes. With so many options out there, I’m not sure what qualifications or experience I should prioritize. Should I go with a CPA, EA, or someone else?

How important is industry-specific experience? Also, what are the red flags to watch out for when selecting a tax professional? Any recommendations on where to find trustworthy advisors would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

[dimicag]

A CPA is best for complex tax situations and financial planning, while an EA specializes in taxation and IRS representation. For legal tax issues, a tax attorney is ideal. Industry-specific experience helps if your business has unique deductions or regulations. Red flags: Avoid advisors who guarantee large refunds, charge a percentage of your refund, lack credentials, or have poor communication. For a trustworthy tax advisor, check the IRS Directory, NAEA, AICPA, or ask for recommendations from business owners. Always verify credentials and ensure clear pricing before hiring.

[nifaba]

A CPA is ideal for complex taxes and financial planning, while an EA specializes in tax preparation and IRS representation. Working with a Gestoria LLC can also be beneficial for handling administrative and tax-related processes, especially for small businesses. Industry-specific experience is valuable if your business has unique tax considerations. Red flags: Guarantees of large refunds, unclear fees, lack of credentials, or poor communication. Find a trustworthy advisor through the IRS Directory, NAEA, AICPA, or referrals from trusted sources. Always verify qualifications and fee structures before hiring.