Essential Questions To Ask Before Letting Someone Prepare Your Taxes

Posted on February 8, 2024February 4, 2025

Essential Questions To Ask Before Letting Someone Prepare Your Taxes

Tax season can be a complicated time, and the decision to have someone else prepare your taxes adds another layer of stress. While it’s a relief to have a professional handle your finances, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure your taxes are in good hands.

Landmark National Bank strives to provide expert financial advice to help you properly navigate tax season. Here are some essential questions to ask a tax preparer before moving forward with their services.

1. Are You a Certified Tax Preparer?

The first and most critical tax return question is to see their certification. Ensure that the individual or firm is legally authorized to prepare your taxes. Ask for credentials like being a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Enrolled Agent (EA), or a licensed tax attorney. These certifications indicate a level of expertise and accountability.

2. What Is Your Experience in Tax Preparation?

Experience matters in deciding how to choose a tax accountant. Inquire about their history in the field, including the number of years they’ve been practicing and the types of clients they typically handle. This information will give you a sense of their expertise and whether they’re suited to your individual tax situation.

3. How Do You Keep Up With Tax Law Changes?

Tax laws are constantly evolving. A competent tax preparer should be up to date with the latest tax regulations and changes. Ask how they stay informed and adapt to new tax laws. This ensures your taxes will comply with the most recent tax codes.

4. Can You Provide References?

References or testimonials from previous clients can provide insight into your tax preparer’s reliability and effectiveness. A reputable tax preparer should be willing and able to provide references upon request.

5. How Do You Determine Your Fees?

Understanding a tax preparer’s fee structure is crucial as it prevents surprises later on. Some tax preparers charge a flat rate, while others charge based on the complexity of your tax return. Make sure you get a clear understanding of the costs involved and ensure there are no hidden fees.

6. What Kind of Tax Services Do You Offer?

Tax preparation services can vary widely. Some preparers might only fill out your tax return, while others offer comprehensive services like tax planning and advice. Knowing the range of services they provide will help you understand if they meet your needs.

7. How Do You Handle IRS Audits?

You should inquire about your tax preparer’s procedures in the event of an IRS audit. A good preparer should be willing to assist you throughout the audit process. Their response can also give you an indication of their confidence in their own skills!

8. How Do You Protect Client Data?

In an age where data breaches are common, understanding how your personal and financial information is protected is crucial. Ask about your preparer’s security measures to ensure your sensitive information remains confidential.

9. What Is Your Communication Style?

Understanding a tax preparer’s communication style is essential, especially if you have a complex tax situation. Ask about their preferred mode of communication and how often they will update you on the status of your tax preparation. If you plan on frequently getting in touch to ask a tax question, it can help to ask how long they typically take to respond.

10. Can You File Electronically?

Electronic filing is not only faster but also more secure. Make sure your tax preparer offers electronic filing options. This can also expedite your tax refund process, helping put money back in your pocket as quickly as possible.

Seek Professional Advice From Landmark National Bank

Choosing the right person to prepare your taxes is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. By asking these 10 essential questions, you can ensure your taxes are in good hands. Remember, finding a good tax preparer is about more than finding someone to fill out your forms—they should also offer peace of mind and guidance through the complex world of tax regulations.

Landmark National Bank provides professional advice on a variety of financial matters along with comprehensive services for things like checking accounts and savings accounts. Whether you’re just starting to get your finances in order or have years of money management experience, we can help! Contact Landmark National Bank or locate a bank branch near you today!

Should I Hire a CPA To Do My Taxes?

Posted on February 8, 2024February 9, 2026

Should I Hire a CPA To Do My Taxes?

Update February 2026

When tax season rolls around, many people ask, “Should I hire a CPA to do my taxes?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. Tax laws are constantly changing, financial situations can be complex, and the pressure to maximize deductions while staying compliant can feel overwhelming. On top of that, hiring a tax professional comes with a cost—adding another consideration during an already stressful time of year.

Thankfully, you’re not alone. The experts at Landmark National Bank are here to help you make an informed decision. In the following blog, we’ll break down the benefits of hiring a tax CPA, explore when it makes sense to work with a tax professional, and help you understand how to choose the right CPA services for your personal taxes or small business needs.

Benefits of Hiring a CPA

Working with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) offers more than just help filing forms. Whether you’re searching for a CPA for personal taxes or considering a long-term tax accountant to help with your business, here are some key things to look out for.

Expertise in Tax Law

CPAs are highly trained professionals with deep knowledge of tax laws, regulations, and compliance requirements. They undergo rigorous education, pass a comprehensive certification exam, and complete ongoing continuing education to stay current with tax laws.

This expertise is especially valuable if you have a complex tax situation—such as owning a small business, earning freelance income, managing multiple income streams, or are holding significant investments. CPA services can help you navigate gray areas, reduce uncertainty, and help you prepare you taxes with confidence.

Time Savings

For busy individuals and business owners, hiring a tax accountant often means fewer late nights and less stress during tax season. Preparing taxes can be time-consuming, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with current tax codes or filing requirements. From organizing documents to filing forms, a CPA handles the details, so you can focus on everyday life.

Reducing Errors and Risk

Even small mistakes on a tax return can lead to penalties, delayed refunds, or increased scrutiny from the IRS. Utilizing CPA services helps you submit an accurate tax return without errors and omissions.

Maximizing Deductions and Credits

One of the most common reasons people seek CPA services and tax accountants is to ensure they’re not leaving money on the table. A CPA can identify deductions and credits you may not be aware of and apply them appropriately, so you get more money back on tax day.

Beyond filing your return, a CPA can also provide guidance that supports smarter financial decisions throughout the year—helping you plan ahead and potentially reduce your tax burden going forward.

Representation in Audits

If you’re ever audited, having a CPA on your side can make a significant difference. Knowing you have tax professional can bring peace of mind, especially if your tax situation is more complex. CPAs can represent you before the IRS, answer questions on your behalf, and help resolve issues efficiently. If you’ve been working with your CPA long-term, they should also have a record of your paperwork and filing so you don’t have to track down important documents.

What Does a CPA Do?

Many people assume CPAs only prepare tax returns, but their role often goes much further. In addition to filing personal and business taxes, CPAs may provide:

Tax planning and strategy
Bookkeeping and financial reporting
Business consulting and cash flow analysis
Payroll and compliance support
Guidance during major financial decisions

Whether you need a CPA for personal taxes or ongoing support for your business, a CPA can serve as a trusted financial advisor, not just a once-a-year resource.

Other Factors To Consider

Cost of Hiring a CPA

Cost is often the biggest hesitation when deciding whether to hire a CPA. Professional tax preparation typically costs more than using online software or filing on your own.

However, for many individuals and small businesses, the peace of mind and stress reduction during tax time is worth the investment. A CPA may help uncover deductions, prevent costly mistakes, and provide guidance that saves money over time. If your financial situation is complex, professional tax and accounting services may be a worthwhile investment.

How to Choose a CPA

Not all CPAs offer the same services or specialize in the same areas. Finding the right fit for your individual situation matters. Taking time to find the right CPA can lead to a more productive, long-term relationship.

Choosing the right CPA is about more than credentials—it’s about trust and collaboration. If you’re looking for a tax CP, consider these tips to help you make an informed decision.

Check credentials. Make sure the CPA is licensed and in good standing.
Ask about experience. Choose someone familiar with your specific needs—personal taxes, small business accounting, freelancing or all of the above.
Understand pricing. Ask how fees are structured and what services are included. Is it a one-time flat fee or do they base their cost on hours spent preparing your taxes?
Look for communication fit. A good CPA should be approachable and willing to explain complex topics clearly. Ask if your CPA is open to ongoing communication during the tax process and after.
Seek referrals. As with most things, the best way to find a professional is by hearing straight from their customers. Ask trusted friends or people in a similar line of work as you if they have CPA recommendations.

When Should You Hire a CPA?

While not everyone needs professional tax help, certain situations make hiring a CPA especially beneficial during tax season and for long-term financial health.

Complex finances. If you have a complicated financial situation, such as freelance income, investments, or rental properties, a CPA can help.
Major life changes. Life events like marriage, divorce, having a child, or buying a home can significantly affect your taxes so during these periods you may want to seek professional financial help to ensure you file properly.
Previous tax issues. If you’ve had issues with the IRS in the past, a CPA can help you navigate these challenges and avoid future problems.
Small businesses. Hiring a CPA for your small business can help you maximize your company’s deductions and avoid potential tax issues or lost money.

If any of these apply to you, working with a CPA can help reduce stress and improve financial clarity.

Get Expert Guidance From Landmark National Bank

At Landmark National Bank, we understand that financial decisions don’t exist in isolation—especially during tax season. That’s why we’re committed to providing education, tools, and expert support to help you move forward with confidence.

From checking and savings accounts to personal loans and financial guidance, Landmark National Bank is here to support you year-round—not just at tax time.

Contact Landmark National Bank or locate a bank branch near to speak to one of our team members.

How To Prepare for Tax Season

Posted on January 2, 2023December 11, 2024

How To Prepare for Tax Season

Filing taxes can feel like a daunting task every year. Curb some of the stress of tax season by preparing ahead. This blog will give you the basics of how to prepare for tax season, so you can file your taxes on time and worry-free.

How Do I File My Taxes?

There are three main ways to file a tax return: filling out the forms by hand, using tax return software, or hiring a tax preparer. Each of these methods comes with its own strengths and weaknesses that may hold more or less appeal based on the complexity of your tax return.

Paper return. While paper returns avoid possible issues with internet security or connectivity, it is the longest to process for the IRS and can be prone to errors.
Online return. An online return quickens the process but requires you to put in the legwork with electronic files. There may also be technical difficulties.
Tax preparer. While alleviating some of the labor, tax preparers can vary in their expense and experience.

Should I File My Taxes Online?

In recent years, filing your taxes online has become easier and faster than filing a paper return. You can find an abundance of resources online for software and tax preparation services, but know that you do not have to pay to file your taxes.

Some websites and apps may charge you for using their software, but sending a tax return to the IRS should never cost money. You can learn more about filing taxes online for free through the IRS website.

What Do You Need To File Taxes?

You will need a combination of personal and financial information for your tax documents. For ease of access, we’ve compiled some of the common items you’ll need.

Social Security numbers for yourself, as well as for your spouse and dependents, if applicable
W-2 form from each employer you had in the previous year
1099 forms, if applicable
Retirement account contributions
Property taxes and mortgage interest
Charitable donations
State and local taxes you paid
Educational expenses
Unreimbursed medical bills
Last year’s federal and state tax returns

When Should I File My Taxes?

As soon as you have the proper documents and information you can begin on your return paperwork. However, the soonest you can file it with the IRS is in late January. In 2023, both federal and Kansas tax returns are due Tuesday, April 28.

While this date might seem far away, tax deadlines always arrive quicker than we expect. It’s important to begin thinking and preparing now so the process can go smoother later. However, if you run into issues obtaining the correct documents or you simply let time get away from you, it’s possible to request an extension on your tax deadline.

Take the Stress Out of Banking With Landmark National Bank

Whether you’re preparing your taxes or receiving your return, you’ll need a bank that has your back. Landmark offers e-statements, so you’ll have 18 months of statements available online to help document your expenses from the previous year. Turn to the professionals at Landmark National Bank for all your banking needs; we are dedicated to providing customer-focused banking solutions to bring you success and stability every year. Find a branch near you and open an account today!