Tax Pros & Tax Prep Fees

ahoy June,

happy new year!

I did some research on possible local tax preparers with experience with indies. Here are two that I just contacted: #1 XXX, name & website here. He is estimating ~$350 total, depending on how organized I am (which i believe i am pretty organized as far as possible deductions and receipts go, thanks to your book). He wants to see a copy of our 2008 returns, though our 2008 returns have no self-employed work on them (that started this year). He was recommended by a friend whose father (runs a nature tour business, not sure if he is self-employed) uses him for his taxes.

And #2 YYY, name & website here. I am still waiting to hear back from him, but recommended by another friend.

If you have any info/comments on either one, I would appreciate it.

hope all is well.
peace, wayne


Hi Wayne,

Hint #1:
You need an appendix removed. How many appendectomies did the doctor do? Are you his first? You need to ask a similar question of your potential tax pro.

Hint #2:
There no mention of self-employeds on his site. He does mention small business. Candy store? Widget makers?

Hint #3:
Site says check out our blog. However, the blog is not CPA's material but columns from NY Times, Wharton, etc.

Other point, I don't know how a flat fee of $350 or any flat amount can be given -- regardless of whether you are organized or not. Do you have a home office? Business auto? 2 business autos? An indie pension? Employees? I can do a tax return for one indie for $500 and for another indie for $5,000. Both indies; both IT consultants; very different businesses.

Before you talk with the second guy read these posts tax pros - tax prep fees - tax returns

Best,
June