Tax Accountant - for doing Taxes

[hrp22]

I typically do my own taxes.  We've got a rental property, and we are typically close to being able to itemize, so I have to run both numbers.  I have found that places like HR block want to charge $350 for what I need, and I'm basically doing all the work anyhow ( they just are merely typing in the numbers to their computer application while I give them all the numbers.)  

We'll have a newborn due on tax day next year, so I want to hire out.


1.  How do I find a real deal tax accountant?  

2. How much should I expect to pay?

3.  Can I just scan all my documents and give them an electronic copy of all my receipts and such and let them have at it? Is this typical, or do I have to sit for hours with someone and basically regurgitate all the info for them?

[mrsfarmer]

Check with your state CPA society of CPA's as they may have a referral service.

[tine]

Ask for a reference or look up local CPAs who prepare taxes. The price will vary based on how complex your return is but you can ask for an estimate or how much they charge per hour. You can probably send all your info via email or they might want you to come in to meet. They will have a lot of questions for you the first year but should have less each year after. As opposed to HR block, you wouldn't sit there while they prepare the return.

[tealblue]

1) ask for recommendations from friends and coworkers. Or like above, go to your states CPA society (or board of accountancy) and search. In my state- and I assume others have this too- you can see if the CPA has had any negative things brought against them from the board. Make sure they have a current/active license.

2 & 3) it's going to depend on the size of the firm you use, how organized your info is, and how much time/work needs to be done. The more you can do, the cheaper it will be. By just handing them scanned receipts, they'll have to organize and enter in info. If you have a list of your rental income and then expenses categorized, it's less time. You pay for their time. You'll likely need to meet or talk on the phone to give them a basic understanding of what you have going on. I would probably make a copy of your prior year info for them as well.

Edit: please don't go to an h&r block or place like that. They aren't CPA's and they charge a lot of money.

[Deleted]

I'd ask for recommendations from friends and coworkers. I actually found an amazing one this way who specializes in the industry I work in--he knows every possible write off for artists and it's been really great for us.

[jwright]

I would find referrals through friends or coworkers. Most will charge an hourly rate and will definitely take your documents electronically. They may want to meet with you first to learn a little about your background so they know what to ask and what to be looking for.

A smaller practice will probably be cheaper; my old (Top 15 national) firm had a $750 minimum which may have increased. Even when doing returns on the side now, I try to keep a $300 minimum.