Best Certified Tax Preparers in 2024
Navigating the U.S. tax code can be a daunting task, especially with the complexity of tax laws, regulations, and the potential for costly mistakes. That’s why many individuals and businesses turn to certified tax preparers to ensure they file accurately and on time. But not all tax preparers are created equal. In this review, we’ll break down the key players in the industry, scrutinizing their services, strengths, and what makes them stand out.
Whether you're a salaried employee with straightforward taxes, a business owner with complex financials, or someone facing IRS issues, finding the right certified tax preparer is critical. This article provides an in-depth look at the top tax preparers in the U.S. to help you make an informed choice.
What Is a Certified Tax Preparer?
Before diving into specific companies, it's important to clarify what a certified tax preparer is.
A certified tax preparer is a professional who is authorized to assist in preparing and filing tax returns, ensuring compliance with tax laws.
The certification indicates that the individual has undergone training, met certain standards, and is recognized by relevant governing bodies such as the IRS, state boards, or other professional organizations.
The three main types of certified tax professionals are:
- Certified Public Accountants (CPAs): Accountants who pass a rigorous state licensing exam and specialize in tax and financial planning.
- Enrolled Agents (EAs): Federally-authorized tax professionals licensed by the IRS to represent taxpayers in tax-related matters.
- Tax Attorneys: Legal professionals specializing in tax law who can offer both tax preparation services and legal representation in tax disputes.
Now, let’s review the best tax preparation firms in the U.S. and what they offer.
1. H&R Block: The Veteran in Tax Preparation
Overview: H&R Block is arguably the most recognizable name in tax preparation, with a history dating back to 1955. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including in-person tax preparation, DIY tax filing software, and online tax filing with professional assistance.
Strengths:
- Nationwide Presence: With over 12,000 locations across the U.S., H&R Block is easily accessible, making it convenient for individuals and small businesses who prefer face-to-face interaction.
- Variety of Services: Whether you want to file taxes yourself using their intuitive software or need a certified professional to handle everything, H&R Block has a solution.
- Transparent Pricing: H&R Block offers straightforward pricing for their services, with no hidden fees.
Best For: Individuals with straightforward tax returns, small businesses, or anyone looking for in-person help without breaking the bank.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Cost for Complex Filings: While affordable for basic tax returns, more complicated filings (such as those involving multiple investments or self-employment income) can become costly.
2. TurboTax (Intuit): DIY Filing With Professional Backup
Overview: TurboTax is known for its highly intuitive and user-friendly tax filing software. With a robust platform designed for both individuals and small businesses, it provides step-by-step guidance to ensure users maximize their deductions and credits.
Strengths:
- TurboTax Live: For users who want a DIY approach but need professional help, TurboTax Live offers real-time access to certified tax professionals (CPAs, EAs) who review your return.
- User Experience: TurboTax’s platform is incredibly easy to use, with guided prompts that help even the least tech-savvy filer navigate complex tax forms.
- Online Convenience: Everything is done online, making it ideal for users who want to file from the comfort of their own home.
Best For: Tech-savvy individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who want the flexibility of filing online but still value professional input.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Price for Full-Service: While the DIY option is reasonably priced, adding professional review services can push TurboTax into a higher price bracket, especially for complex returns.
3. Jackson Hewitt: Affordable, In-Person Expertise
Overview: Known for its convenient locations (many inside Walmart stores), Jackson Hewitt provides in-person tax preparation services at an affordable price. Their certified tax preparers are equipped to handle both basic and complex tax returns.
Strengths:
- Widespread Access: With over 6,000 locations across the U.S., Jackson Hewitt is another convenient option for individuals who prefer face-to-face tax help.
- Affordable Pricing: Jackson Hewitt is often more affordable than other in-person tax preparers, making it a good choice for those on a budget.
- Guarantees: They offer a Max Refund Guarantee, ensuring clients get the maximum refund possible, and a Lifetime Accuracy Guarantee, protecting clients from penalties due to preparation errors.
Best For: Budget-conscious individuals or families who prefer in-person tax preparation and want to avoid online DIY options.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Online Options: Jackson Hewitt primarily focuses on in-person services, so those looking for robust online tools may find other platforms more suitable.
4. EY TaxChat: Big-Firm Expertise, Personalized Service
Overview: Ernst & Young (EY), one of the Big Four accounting firms, offers TaxChat, an online tax preparation service aimed at individuals and small business owners. TaxChat connects you with an EY tax professional to handle your tax filing.
Strengths:
- Big-Firm Reputation: EY’s reputation for handling complex financial and tax matters ensures that even the most complicated returns are in good hands.
- Personalized Attention: Despite being a large firm, TaxChat offers personalized service, where each client works with a dedicated tax professional.
- Complex Tax Expertise: EY excels in handling high-net-worth individuals, foreign income, and business owners with intricate tax filings.
Best For: High-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and those with complex tax situations (e.g., multiple income streams, investments, international taxes).
Potential Drawbacks:
- Pricing: EY TaxChat comes with a premium price tag, which may be overkill for individuals with simpler tax needs.
5. Liberty Tax: Budget-Friendly Option With a National Presence
Overview: Liberty Tax is a well-established tax preparation service with a focus on affordability and accessibility. They offer both in-person and online services, making it easy for users to find the option that suits them best.
Strengths:
- Affordability: Liberty Tax is known for being one of the more affordable in-person tax preparation services, often running promotions or offering discounts to new clients.
- Multiple Filing Options: Clients can choose between DIY online filing or visiting one of their numerous physical locations for assistance from certified tax preparers.
- Responsive Service: Liberty Tax typically offers faster processing times for refunds compared to other in-person services.
Best For: Individuals or families looking for a budget-friendly tax preparation service with the option of either in-person or online help.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Reputation for Errors: Some reviews indicate that Liberty Tax’s quality control is not as stringent as larger firms, leading to errors in certain cases.
6. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers): Premium Service for Complex Tax Needs
Overview: PwC is another Big Four accounting firm that provides a full range of tax services for both individuals and businesses. They specialize in handling complex tax situations, including estate planning, international tax law, and high-income earners.
Strengths:
- Expertise for High-Complexity Returns: PwC is one of the best choices for high-net-worth individuals, businesses, or those dealing with international tax obligations.
- Legal Representation: PwC also provides tax attorneys who can handle disputes or legal issues with the IRS.
- Comprehensive Services: Beyond just tax preparation, PwC offers tax planning, financial advisory, and business consulting services.
Best For: High-income individuals, businesses, or anyone needing top-tier advice on complex tax situations.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Price: PwC’s services are among the most expensive, so it’s best suited for those who need more than basic tax filing assistance.
7. RSM US LLP: Middle-Market Expertise
Overview: RSM specializes in providing tax services to middle-market businesses, but they also cater to individuals with complex financial situations. RSM is known for its deep tax expertise and personalized service.
Strengths:
- Middle-Market Focus: RSM’s expertise lies in serving middle-market companies, making them an excellent choice for business owners or individuals with more sophisticated financial structures.
- Tax Planning: They offer more than just tax preparation – RSM focuses on tax planning and strategy, helping businesses optimize their tax obligations.
Best For: Business owners and individuals with complex, multi-state, or multi-national financial portfolios.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Geared Towards Businesses: While RSM serves individuals, their services are particularly geared toward middle-market companies, which may not be necessary for simpler returns.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right certified tax preparer can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure that your taxes are filed correctly. The best choice depends largely on your tax situation, whether it's simple or complex, and your personal preferences for in-person or online services.
- For simple, straightforward returns: H&R Block and TurboTax offer great DIY and assisted options at an affordable price.
- For more complex returns: EY TaxChat, PwC, and RSM are top choices for those dealing with complicated tax matters, such as international investments or significant business income.
- For those who prefer in-person assistance on a budget: Jackson Hewitt and Liberty Tax provide accessible, reliable services nationwide.
By understanding your needs and considering the strengths and weaknesses of each provider, you’ll be able to make the best choice for your tax filing, ensuring peace of mind and potentially maximizing your tax refund.