Tax Services

Types of Tax Services Available

As filing deadlines draw nearer, consider getting help from these sources:

• The IRS provides tax services via its website, facsimile and telephone.
• Local Chambers of Commerce and Small Business Associations offer a variety of tax preparation help.
• Online tax software programs offer tutorials and run error checks.
• Hiring a tax professional, like an accountant or attorney, provides confidence that your return is accurate.

Regardless of which way you file, be sure to give yourself and/or the person who prepares your taxes, adequate time to provide professional tax services. Review your records carefully and consider every thing you can claim. Also, be sure to include expense receipts incurred.

Useful IRS Services and Publications

Become familiar with federal tax rules and changes even if you procure a tax services professional to prepare your return.

• Get telephone assistance.
• Attend tax workshops locally and via telephone.
• Know which records must be retained.
• Know the length of time you must store records.
• Special rules apply to internet merchants.
• Don't be fooled by fraudulent schemes.
• Get information on filing taxes for a corporation.
• Get information on filing taxes for a partnership.
• Get information on filing taxes for a Limited Liability Company.
• Get information for the self-employed.
• Learn about which, if any, employment taxes you are responsible for.
• Apply for an Employee Identification Number.

Small Business Association (SBA) Resources

The United States Small Business Association provides a variety of tools to help prepare taxes.

• Many local Small Business Association offices offer expert assistance from licensed professionals.
• Take a free tax preparation course online.
• Apply for a small business loan or other financial help.
• Learn how to collect debt through “offset”.
• Become a vendor for the federal government.
• Contact a local Women’s Business Center for tax help.

Chamber of Commerce Resources

Benefits available for members of the United States Chamber of Commerce vary.

• Learn if you are responsible for reporting sales tax.
• Get information regarding filing state taxes.
• Register with the US Chamber to receive up-to-date tax services and the latest available assistance.
• Your local Chamber of Commerce offers member benefits throughout the year, including courses on tax topics.
• Some local Chambers of Commerce offer members free counseling from a tax professional.
• Your local Chamber may also be a networking resource.

Online Tax Preparation Services

When choosing tax preparation software, make sure to thoroughly compare reputable programs to find the tax services you need. Some online functions available include:

• Tax services compatible with business software programs like QuickBooks, Quicken and other programs.
• Programs that scan returns for errors.
• Services offering audit help.

Choose a reputable online tax service that is an IRS E-File Partner.

Professional Services

Many so called “professionals” who offer tax advice are really just seasonal workers who may not have the skills necessary to help you get all the deductions and benefits you deserve, so be sure to choose a reputable tax preparer. Ask the person preparing your taxes how many years of experience he has. If he is unfamiliar with the questions you ask, consider finding someone else to prepare your taxes.

• Ask if any recent tax law changes benefit or hurt you.
• Bring records in detailed order to your tax professional. Not only will this assist him in preparing your taxes, but it will also cut down preparation fees if he bills hourly.
• Find out the cost for preparing your taxes in advance. If the person preparing your taxes bills on an hourly basis, request that he provide you with an estimate before he begins.
• Ask the tax professional if he will offer assistance if the IRS or your state audits you.