Are you able to tackle your tax problems on your own? Or do you need to call in an expert?
Tax law is complex, with many regulations and exemptions that can change from person to person. It’s easy to make a mistake if you don’t fully understand the law. That’s where a tax attorney comes in.
However, don’t assume your attorney will be able to solve all of your tax issues. Certain questions need to be asked to make sure the task is done properly.
Read this guide to learn what to ask your tax attorney.
1. How Much Experience Do You Have in Tax Law?
When considering a tax attorney, it is important to take the time to ask questions to ensure you find the right attorney for your needs. Among these questions should be inquiries related to experience and expertise.
Specifically, it is important to ask, “How much experience do you have in tax law?”. A tax attorney with years and breadth of experience, who is involved in the local and state bar associations, and is well-versed in taxation laws and regulations, can offer the highest quality of advice and service.
2. What Is Included in Your Services?
A good tax attorney will take the time to lay out the scope of services, such as preparing IRS audit information as well as any additional fees that may be associated with them. Find out what services are provided upfront to avoid any unexpected costs or charges later on.
Knowing in advance the full scope of services offered can help ensure you’re getting the best help for your tax needs.
3. What Is the Cost of Tax Preparation and Filing?
When it comes to tax preparation and filing, it is important to ask your tax attorney about the cost of their services. You should ask about the exact fee for the services being provided, as well as any additional charges for filing electronically or for any additional documents that the attorney may request.
Also, it is important to know if the cost includes any other related services. Ask if the attorney charges per hour or project basis and if any estimates can be given in advance.
Ask if they offer any discounts or payment plans, and inquire about the payment methods they accept.
4. Are You Familiar With the Tax Laws in My State?
One of the key questions to ask is whether your attorney is familiar with the tax laws in your state. Your attorney should have a comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local tax rules in order to advise you on your best course of action regarding taxation.
They should also be aware of other tax rules that may apply to your specific situation, such as those related to owning a business or inherited wealth.
5. Do You File Tax Returns With the IRS or State Tax Authority?
It’s important to ask your tax attorney how they handle filing taxes with the IRS and state tax authorities. In many cases, they might handle both filings.
If they don’t handle both filings, they should be able to refer you to a reliable tax preparer who can handle both.
If they handle all the filings, ask them what type of preparation services they offer and if they have experience filing all the necessary forms.
6. Do You Provide Any Guarantee on Accurate Filing and Deadlines?
It is important to ask specific questions of your tax attorney before hiring them to ensure they are the right professionals to assist you with your tax filing. One important question to ask your tax attorney is if they provide any guarantee on their accuracy of filing and deadlines.
You want to make sure that the attorney you hire can deliver on their promises, as this could be a costly mistake if you have missed important filing dates or have made an inaccurate filing.
Knowing this information before hiring an attorney can provide you with confidence that you have the right legal knowledge on your side.
7. How Long Will You Take to Complete the Task?
A tax attorney should be able to give you an estimated timeframe. This timeline will depend on the complexity of the case, the amount of research and paperwork needed, as well as other factors.
They should also be able to provide you with detailed updates on the progress of the task. You should also discuss the communication methods used to update you on the progress, as well as any limits to their availability.
8. Do You Recommend Any Particular Legal Strategies?
When consulting a tax attorney, it is important to form a clear understanding of the legal strategies they may recommend. Asking your tax attorney about tactics they recommend to minimize tax liability is a great place to start.
Additionally, it is important to know whether the attorney recommends any investments or actions that may legally reduce taxable income. It is also important to discuss how each option may affect your personal and business finances.
Ultimately, your tax attorney should provide you with their professional recommendation and a comprehensive explanation of the legal ramifications.
9. Do You Have the Necessary Contacts to Help Resolve My Tax Issue?
When a person is facing a tax issue, it is important to contact a tax attorney for assistance.
The attorney should have the know-how to identify the people and the organizations to contact on your behalf. Moreover, through their contacts and experience, the attorney should be aware of the most effective strategies to help mitigate the consequences of your tax issue.
10. What Tax Deductions Should I Take Advantage Of?
Your tax attorney can provide you with advice on deductions that you may be eligible for that can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. When asking your tax attorney about deductions, you should ask what deductions are available to you and if there are any tax credits that you may qualify for.
Additionally, you should ask how common deductions can be applied to your situation, such as deductions related to student loan interest, home office expenses, or medical expenses.
Ask These Questions to a Tax Attorney Today
Overall, consulting with a tax attorney is essential if you are facing an issue with the IRS or require tax advice. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as necessary in order to make sure you clearly understand the information you are being given.
So start now by scheduling an appointment with a qualified tax attorney!
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