In California, only California certified public accountants, attorneys with the State Bar of California, tax preparers registered with CTEC, or enrolled agents with the IRS can prepare tax returns for a fee. All professionals should willingly provide proof of their license, enrollment, or registration. CTEC registrants are required to have their certificate in a visible location.
Reasonable fees vary, but the cost of the tax preparation should never be based on the refund amount. It should be based on the complexity of your tax return.
Don’t be shy. Filing your tax return is the most important financial transaction you do each year. It is important you feel comfortable with the professional you hire.
Legitimate tax preparers will be available for clients year-round.
Refunds should go directly to you. Beware of tax preparers who claim refunds should go to their bank account instead of yours.
The answer should always be YES. Paid tax preparers are also required to obtain an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and include it on all tax returns they prepare for clients. Tax preparers who sign tax returns with a business label should also be questioned. A signature (typed or handwritten) and PTIN is required. Business labels do not meet federal or state standards.
Generally speaking, California certified public accountants (CPAs) and attorneys, IRS enrolled agents (EAs), and CTEC-registered tax preparers (CRTPs).
Hiring an unqualified tax preparer will increase your chances for tax fraud, penalties, and additional taxes.
Unregistered tax preparers can be reported here. All reports go directly to the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB).
No. You will not get in trouble for what is submitted in the complaint.