How do I find the best tax preparers near me?

I need a reliable tax preparer for both business and personal taxes, but I’m having trouble finding affordable options. Most quotes I’ve come across range from $350 to $500 does that seem typical, or should I keep searching?

For those who use a tax preparer:
  • Where’s the best place to find a trustworthy professional at a fair price?
  • Are there any red flags I should be aware of when choosing a tax preparer?
  • Is it better to go with a CPA, a national tax chain, or an independent tax preparer

    Any recommendations or insights on what to expect when hiring someone for tax prep
 
That price range sounds pretty standard for business and personal taxes, especially if your situation is even slightly complicated. If u r looking for a trustworthy professional then check out Enrolled Agents as well. They specialize in tax prep and might be cheaper than a CPA but still very knowledgeable.
 
I have used an independent CPA for years and it’s worth every penny. You build a relationship,and they actually care about your financial well being instead of just inputting numbers into TurboTax.
 
Yeah, that range actually sounds pretty normal for someone decent, especially if u r dealing with business taxes. I pay $425 and it's worth every penny for the peace of mind.
 
I totally get it. Taxes are already stressful and then trying to find someone reliable without paying a fortune is a whole other headache. I went through 3 tax pros before I found one I trust. It takes time but once you find the right person, it's worth it.
 
I’ve been through the wringer with tax preparers. National chains are fine for simple stuff but if u r running a business, you might want someone with actual CPA credentials. You don’t want a tax prep rookie messing with your livelihood.
 
I pay around $400 for my LLC + personal taxes combined. That’s been pretty standard for me in Chicago. Not cheap but i get peace of mind.
 
avoid H&R Block if you’ve got anything more complicated than a W-2. they’re fine for basics but once you toss a Schedule C into the mix, it’s chaos.
 
Be careful with the national chains like H&R Block. You’re often paying for the brand, not the brains. Some of their preparers aren’t even CPAs or EAs. just saying
 
Just gonna say it that anyone charging less than $200 is either brand new or shady af. U don’t want your taxes done by someone with a flip phone and a folding table at the flea market
 
H&R Block quoted me $425 last year and forgot to file a 1099. i now owe interest on a mistake I paid them to avoid. so yeah… avoid national chains IMO.
 
do not go with H&R Block unless you’re doing the simplest return ever. I paid $600 for them to basically TurboTax my info and still missed deductions 😤
 
Not gonna lie i used one of those national chains and they literally copied my info into TurboTax and charged me $400. Never again.
 
That price range is typical for someone doing both personal and small biz taxes. If u r self employed or have investments the prep gets more complex. I've been using an enrolled agent instead of a CPA and they’ve been just as good and a bit cheaper.
 
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