Questions to ask a tax preparer before outsourcing

Tax preparation is a tricky business and one wrong calculation can cost you a lot of money. Before entrusting your financials to an unfamiliar tax preparer, there are some important questions you should ask in advance.

Outsourcing your tax preparation services can be a great way to save time and energy. But with the stakes so high, it’s important that you thoroughly vet the tax preparer you’re considering before handing over your personal information and trust. That’s why it’s important to ask the right questions when looking for someone to do your taxes.

In this blog post, we will list out some important questions that you should ask a potential tax preparer before trusting them with your financial information. Knowing what to look for can help you find an experienced tax professional who will make sure you get the maximum tax deductions possible.

What software do you use for filing taxes?

At our accounting firms, we use a variety of specialized tax preparation software to assist with filing income tax returns in tax seasons. This software helps streamline the process significantly and can create simple, accurate tax returns in a fraction of the time it would take manually. From meeting statutory requirements to providing support for complex tax strategies, these programs are invaluable resources for getting our clients the best results. We use popular software that includes Intuit Proconnect, Drake software, Cross link, Intuit Lacerte Tax and ATX. 

How much do outsourcing tax preparation services cost to CPA firms?

Outsourcing tax preparation services to CPA firms can range from a few hundred dollars for small businesses to thousands of dollars for larger companies. The exact cost may depend on the complexity of the return and the size of the firm doing the work. There can also be additional fees for special work, such as preparing multi-year returns or filing amended returns.

What is the turnaround time?

Our tax preparation services strive to provide a timely, efficient turnaround. We seek to complete the necessary processes and preparations within two weeks or sooner, depending on complexity and volume of work. Our team of experts works with diligence and accuracy to ensure your taxes are finished in a timely manner.

What are the outsourcing company’s data security and quality processes?

Outsourcing tax preparation companies prioritize data security by implementing various protocols to ensure that client information is safely kept and secure. These measures often include:

1. Limiting access to personal information. Outsourcing companies typically only grant their staff access to the necessary parts of client files, ensuring limited exposure to sensitive data.

2. Utilizing encryption software for data transmission and storage. Encryption scrambles sensitive data into an unreadable format, protecting it from any breaches or unauthorized access.

3. When accessing accounts, implement multifactor authentication procedures, verifying individual identity with multiple forms of authentication like passwords, security questions and more before account access.

4. Regularly monitoring network activities for potential risks or anomalies that could indicate a breach in security protocol has taken place.

What accreditations, professional certifications, and experience do Safebooks Global have?

Safebooks Global is a professional bookkeeping and accounting services company. We have a team of chartered professional accountants, certified public accountants, and certified management accountants, as well as other professionals who are trained in financial planning and other areas.

The team also has extensive experience in the areas of bookkeeping, payroll, bill paying and other related services. We accredit all our professionals with relevant professional skills and degrees, like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Safebooks Global is also fully compliant with GDPR regulations.

What types of internal training do they do?

Our CPA firm offers internal training and educational programs to ensure that their staff have the latest professional qualifications, knowledge, and technical skills. These trainings may include topics such as accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing standards, technology applications and software usage. Additionally, to stay current on taxation laws and regulations, CPAs will often participate in continuing professional education activities sponsored by the AICPA and other organizations.

It’s important for business owners or CPA firms to ask these questions and any others you may have before outsourcing your tax preparation services. An experienced tax preparer can make filing a breeze and help ensure an accurate return. It pays to be informed about the person you’re working with and their qualifications for the job. Trust the experts – get your taxes done today with Safebooks Global Tax services!