Things Clients can do to achieve a Better Outcome on their Tax and Save on Tax Preparation Costs

• 1. Have all of your information together instead of sending piecemealed information to the preparer. This cuts down on the number of times the preparer has to start and stop the process before it\'s complete.

• 2. Use the organizer to help you identify what information you need.

• 3. Answer all of the questions in the organizer. This helps the preparer identify possible tax savings opportunities that you may or may not be familiar with.

• 4. For Taxpayers with stock and/or capital asset sells, make sure you have your basis/date of purchase information. Finding the basis often takes a lot of time dealing with brokers or reviewing numerous statements.

• 5. Have your business and personal deductions identified and separated. This saves preparer time by gathering and adding information that the taxpayer is already familiar with.

• 6. Summarize your deductible information rather than simply provide a stack of receipts.

• 7. Bring your information early in the tax season. This gives the taxpayer time to deal with possible tax savings opportunities that may be identified during the preparation process.

• 8. If you are using a new tax preparer, make sure to provide him or her with a copy of your last year\'s tax return. This gives the preparer information they\'ll need to complete the return and help them identify items that might get overlooked.

• 9. If your preparer requests additional information, provide that information as soon as possible. This helps get your return completed while it\'s fresh on the preparer\'s mind.

• 10. Using a tax preparer on a long term basis helps the preparer know your circumstances better. And, never hesitate to make a note or voice an item regarding your taxes. Good communications always helps.