How to Save on Tax Preparation

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Filing for free is an option. The IRS offers free filing services at their various service locations in the U.S.A.- see www.irs.gov. Another option is utilizing organizations such as VITA (Voluntary Income Tax Assisistance), state CPA society or AARP, all of which are geared towards demographics such as age and adjusted income levels. Finally, practicing CPAs might have a budgeted amount of annual pro-bono work built into their practice for unusual and distressed tax situations, which is the case for our firm.
Art Barrett,CPA

Art Barrett, CPA of IL 11:17AM June 08, 2012

What about saving money by preparing your taxes yourself and filing (with or without a software program to help)? That would seem to be the most obvious less costly option if you don't qualify for free filing.

Carolyn of VA 1:30PM March 04, 2012

Julie of WA,
If you have no taxable income you do not need to file a return. Unfortunately there is no credit for medical. You might talk to an attorney about your situation as you might have a malpractice case which would require the surgeon who messed up to pay all the bills and reimburse you for pain and suffering. Most lawyers will take these cases on a no fee up front basis. Good Luck!!

TexasDew of TX 5:38PM March 03, 2012

what if i am on social security disability and iam at the hihj end where i dont qualify for alot of the exta help programs but I have around now $200 in medication a month and $ atleast $150 A month in medica la month. Last year I went in for a simple laparscopic gallbladder removal and the Surgeon botch the procedure and nicked my bowel.do to his arrogance he would not take my calls rof 9days even after a 911 vist to the ER which again there not taking the time to listen ( i worked in this field for 10yrs Gen. Surg. then moved on to reconstructive surg after we rem. the cancer) i told them this is not norm to be in EXTREME PAIN after this kid of surg, it is aymost 2day recovery and up & going When the ninth day hit told to come in not to go to er went in and he called 911 to transport to hospital and admitted for 2wks. with what they thought was a blood infect. and putting me thru numerous scan mri xray they found yes I had a bile leak and infection do to the surgeons arrogance I am left with multiple bills I believe The hospital has written there part of when a told them i no he made an error is there any way to file taxes even the my ssd says I dont have to but I put out so much in medical care is there a way to use that as a right off and get credit for it or not?

Julie of WA 4:16PM March 03, 2012

I do my own 1040A and I owe every yr..I notice the Irs corrects any mistake or miscalulation...they purposely wait to correct your Tax anywhere from 6 to 10 months to bill you with interest...A RIPPOFF to all citizens...Government LEGAL THEFT...knowing you do not itemize using the 1040 to recoup the interest charged...

ROY of TX 3:23PM February 24, 2012

TAX DETAILS

MSVENKATESH 6:51AM February 05, 2012

I would agree that for many, the option of self-preparation is viable. However, in many instances, the taxpayer is looking at the dollar cost of tax preparation while not considering the value that an experienced CPA or Enrolled Agent brings to the table. This is even more important as taxpayers are now engaging in a higher number of unique transactions (i.e day trading, rental properties, investing in partnerships) that require thoughtful and experienced guidance in navigating the tax code. When in doubt utilize an organization like the National Association of Tax Professionals or your state CPA society to locate a competent CPA or EA in your area.
Arthur Barrett, CPA
Lake Zurich, Illinois

Art Barrett,CPA of IL 8:52PM January 27, 2012

It's exciting to see that someone who is presented as a person of knowledge, does not know that while the 17th of January was the first day the IRS was planning on accepting returns they did not.
The IRS took off MLK Day which was the 17th, and did not start to accept returns until the 18th. In addition the IRS was so over loaded by returns being submitted via electronic returns that they in fact shut down and stop taking returns in order to get caught up with the over load.
This has in fact caused a delay by the IRS to issue and fund returns as scheduled, so they are running behind.
My guess is being frugal may not mean being informed, so when you have a real question as a TAX PROFESSIONAL.

Nick Latino of AZ 1:32AM January 26, 2012

Does the IRS review your return before sending a refund and does that mean your return is accepted - or are you subject to a review later for the same year?

milbla of CA 5:27PM January 25, 2012