CPA or DIY? The Definitive Guide to Choosing the Best Tax Filing Strategy | Global News Avenue

The tax season will be overwhelmed, but the good news is that you can choose to submit taxes. Nearly half of the U.S. taxpayer use Tax software According to a survey entrusted by college investors, the tax declaration form is prepared and submitted. However, in addition to filling in some numbers and shooting back to the domestic tax service bureau, the tax season is much more.

“The advantage of making CPA prepare your tax declaration form is someone to support you.” Deb CampPublic officials certified by Lindwood City, New Jersey.

What does it need to be a CPA?

Become a rule and requirement Certified public accountant (CPA) It can vary from state, but some are common.

All states require candidates to have at least 150 hours of university education and obtain a bachelor’s degree to become CPA. Although some states have set higher standards, they still need one year of experience or equivalent education. Indiana takes two years, which must be confirmed by active CPA. Many states also require candidates to pass the moral exam. CPA unified inspectionEssence

The CPA must complete the continuous professional education (CPE), including the number of courses each year (different from the state), most of which are concentrated in continuous development Tax lawEssence

Simple and complex returns

There is tax preparation, and then Tax preparationEssence “Only those who have W-2 income should be Prepare your own returnThe camp said. “If you only report the income of W-2 form, there is almost no problem. ”

Form W-2 It is the salary and profit and loss statement you will receive from the employer after the tax year. It shows how much salary you get, any benefits you receive, and tax on your employer detention from salary and reposting it to the State Taxation Bureau (IRS) on behalf of you.

Form 1099 It’s another matter. They reported the income of your work from investment, sale of assets or engaging in independent contractors or independent contractors. However, the source of 1099 income is not only there. There are 21 different 1099 forms cover income, such as canceling debt, distribution of pensions and retirement plans, franchise fees, prizes and third -party network transactions.

Taxation is usually not deducted from 1099 income, you can usually Require deduction Also targeting some of these sources. It is reported that it opens the door for some complex tax regulations and rules that you may not be able to cope.

How much is tax preparation?

The National Accountant Association reports Professional tax preparation According to the return of taxpayers and the complexity of its position, from about 220 US dollars to $ 1,200. The hourly rate ranges from $ 150 to $ 200 per hour.

The use of tax software is much cheaper. The Turbotax Deluxe federal application fee is $ 79 in the filing season of 2025, although the tax salary is only $ 23. These prices are only applicable to basic returns, National return Usually extra.

Can you submit it for free?

The federal government realized that it may be a huge burden for some taxpayers to pay for tax preparation. It provides some useful programs.

You can prepare and submit the tax declaration form for free online IRS direct file However, it is available in only 25 participating states, and the plan is limited to the Basic Table 1040 return.

IRS free file It can be used in all 50 states and Columbia SARs, which can handle more complicated returns, but your adjustment must be $ 84,000 or lower in order to obtain the software from the IRS partner company.

The U.S. Taxation Administration provides other Free serviceBut you must also be qualified to get these. Volunteer income tax aid (VITA) is available for people with annual income of $ 67,000 or less, and people who have disability or language support. The tax consultation of the elderly is available for taxpayers aged 60 or more.

If there is a problem

Camp said: “In addition to the simplest returns, you need to go alone, and you may eventually make you spend more money and aggravation.” “Especially if you must hire someone to solve the error when returning I personally modified many tax declaration form made by these media.

U.S. Taxation Administration Taxpayer assistance centerHowever, you must call and make an appointment in advance. Many centers provide extended hours from January 21 to May 1, 2025. You also need two forms of IDs, one must be a photo ID issued by the government. Please note that the level of support may not match the content you received from the CPA.

Bottom line

When deciding whether to submit or use CPA by itself, consider the complexity of taxation. Tax software is affordable, which is enough to accommodate simple returns, but if you have multiple more Source of income Or deduction, CPA may be a safer choice.

“You will have a person who is familiar with your return. If you receive a notice of adjustment or audit notice, you will defend you. You have the type of return.