Albert Einstein once said, “The hardest thing to understand in the world is the income tax.”

Even Einstein, the smartest man in the world at that time, didn’t even understand how income taxes work! So, why does the average person tackle their income tax returns every year, thinking they can do it? 

We are not elitists here as we know most people do their tax returns to save money and also to keep their earnings confidential. However, most tax filers miss important information or commit several common errors. ***

So, as July 15, 2020, (the new Tax Day date due to the COVID-19 crisis) draws closer, you may want to consider having a certified public accountant (CPA) complete and file your taxes for these reasons:

1. The tax laws are always changing: Every year, Congress makes changes to the tax laws which are then sent to the Internal Revenue Service to enforce. Most people do not have the time or patience to keep up with these laws. CPAs keep up with all these new laws and changes and can advise you on them.
2. Earn $200,000 or more: Top income earners are always in the bullseye for the IRS. Thus, they are more likely to be audited. CPAs can assist the high-earner in filing everything correctly and also in watching for any red flags that might bring an audit.
3. Back taxes are owed: Your CPA will help the client find out how much they owe, how they can pay in installments and how to avoid future issues. The CPA can also contact the IRS for you, represent you to them and work out a reasonable payment plan if it is needed.
4. Saving for children: Children may go to college or need a trust. A CPA can help you set up a trust or financial investment.
5. Inheritance: A large inheritance of cash or property can be both a blessing and a curse. A CPA can figure out how much needs to be paid to the IRS (if any) due to inheritance taxes. They can also advise on how much to pay in the future.
6. Side-hustle or second job: Many people have side jobs now such as Uber or Lyft or rent out a room as an Airbnb. CPAs can determine how much is owed to the IRS and then advise for future earnings and withholdings.
7. Save money…lots of money: As we discussed earlier, many people do their own tax returns thinking they can save money from having to pay an accountant. Unfortunately, they may end up losing money by not filing complete returns or listing all their write-offs. So, they end up paying the IRS thousands of more dollars than they should have. CPAs can save them a lot of money by filing correct and accurate tax returns. 

These are just a few of the reasons you may want to hire a CPA to do your 2019 tax return and your tax returns in the future. They have the knowledge, experience, and credibility. And, they do what is best for you. 

A.K. Burton, PC, has experienced certified public accountants (CPA) on staff who can file your tax returns and represent you to the IRS. Call us at (301) 365-1974 for a consultation. We serve the Bethesda, Rockville and Montgomery County. MD area.   

**For more about common errors on tax returns, visit this page at the IRS website.