TaxPreparer

Audits are avoidable: From outlandish charitable giving to claiming a home office, there are a host of specific thing that can set of warning bells with the IRS. Here are the things the IRS looks for, and tips to help you avoid its scrutiny.

Having your taxes done is never fun, so it's no surprise that many people postpone filing their returns. But there's a price to pay for putting off your date with the IRS: Procrastinators tend to spend more on the process.

From hip replacements to pole dancing classes, here are some of the most outlandish deductions taxpayers have ever attempted to claim. You won't believe what these people tried that their accountants said wouldn't fly -- and you really won't believe what did (literally).

H&R block is at it again, dumping accounting consultancy RSM McGladrey in a continuing pattern of erratic acquisitions and sales. True, the tax preparer is well-positioned in software and online filing, and currently offers good value. But if you want growth, you'd do better to buy its more nimble competitor, Intuit.

National Taxpayer Advocate Nina E. Olson found that IRS collection practices are harming financially struggling taxpayers without producing significant revenue gains according to her annual report to Congress released Wednesday. Olson also concluded that increased demands on the IRS have eroded...