5 Signs You've Got a Lousy Tax Preparer

The preparer's fee is based on a percentage of your refund.
Reputable tax prep firms charge a flat fee for their services, based on the size and scope of your tax return. If a preparer bases your fee on a percentage of your tax refund, that should be an immediate deal-breaker. That only gives the preparer incentive to pump up your refund by any means possible, which can invite some mishandling of your financial information.

No matter what, check with the Better Business Bureau.
The IRS advises a full review of your tax specialist before handing over your documents. Step one is to check with the local Better Business Bureau. If you see your tax preparer's name listed, regardless of the details, it's probably best to keep looking for someone with an unblemished record.

This isn't to say that most tax preparers are unethical or unprofessional. By and large, most are diligent, talented and honest. But with your good name on the line (literally), it's best to thoroughly review any tax specialist you're thinking of bringing aboard.

That's just good business, and good common sense.

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