tax preparer

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.

Americans get three extra days this year to file their income tax returns, but if you've put off doing your taxes, it's time to get organized -- and possibly to get help. Because if you owe Uncle Sam, even if you file for an extension, you'd better have his check in the mail by midnight Monday.

As tax laws become increasingly complicated, more taxpayers rely on tax professionals and tax software to help prepare their returns. In her most recent report to Congress, the National Tax Advocate, Nina Olson, cited tax complexity as one of the most serious problems facing taxpayers, noting that...

As Tax Day creeps closer, tax refund scams are on the rise. A number of fake tax refund schemes have been made public in recent days, as the Justice Department appears to be stepping up enforcement. Just yesterday, the Justice Department announced that Idrissa Bassoum, formerly of Cincinnati, had...

Even though you're nearing the home stretch for getting your taxes done, that doesn't mean you should pay a preparer too much. These fee averages supplied by the National Society of Accountants can serve as a guideline for hiring the person you're going to have to pay once Uncle Sam finishes with...

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...