Blog Post  Filing your 2021 Tax Returns with a Tax Preparer? Here are some tips to get you started.

The 2021 tax season is now in full swing, and the Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation wants all Massachusetts residents to be prepared. Below are some tips and important dates to keep in mind in preparation to meet and file with your chosen tax preparer.

1. Choose between an unlimited or limited representation tax preparer. There are tax preparers who can give you unlimited representation, meaning they can represent you in front of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for all matters like filing audits, collections and appeals. These types of filers are attorneys, certified public accountant (CPA) or enrolled agents. To check if your filer has a professional license in Massachusetts, visit the Division of Occupational Licensure’s check an accountant’s professional license.

You could also choose to utilize a limited representation annual filing season program participant. These individuals do not have the same credentials as unlimited representatives and do not show up in the IRS directory and cannot help if any issues arise after your taxes have been filed, but they can prepare your taxes.

2. Check your tax preparer’s credentials by using the IRS's directory of federal tax return preparers to find which tax preparers currently have professional credentials and double check to make sure they have an IRS preparer tax identification number (PTIN).

3. Collect all your records and important documents you need to bring to your tax meeting and contact your preparer before the meeting to double check on any documents or information you will need during your tax filing meeting. Including if applicable the following:

• Last year’s tax returns,
• W- 2 forms,
• 1099 forms,
• Receipts from the past year,
• Mortgage interest statements,
• Prices for the stocks and bonds you bought/sold during the year
• Details on the income from any rental properties,
• Additional child tax credit documents,
• Letter 6475s for any economic impact payments.

4. Look out for in potential scammers that may:

• Promise you a bigger tax refund, without first looking over your documents,
• Have you sign a blank or unfinished tax return,
• Deposit your refund into their bank account,
• Refuse to sign the tax return or provide a preparer tax identification number on the final tax return.

5. Take note of all important tax dates to make sure that you submit and file in time. Those dates are:

• April 18, 2022 – The last day to file 2021 tax return or request extension for most of the U.S.
• April 19, 2022 – The last day to file 2021 tax return or request extension and pay tax owed for those who live in Massachusetts or Maine.
• October 17, 2022 – The due date to file your taxes if you requested an extension

NOTE: You are legally responsible for what is on your tax return and filing with the IRS on time, no matter who is helping you submit.

If you have an experience where a tax preparer uses improper tax preparation practices or any other type of misconduct that has lead to you being financially impacted, contact the IRS to file your complaint.