What makes a Good Tax Advisor?

I have had several. When I first asked about incorporating, hid response was:what do you think?" If I knew, I wouldn't be here. I guess the most important thing is to have one that is familiar with your specific type of business or situation and one that has an opinion and is willing to share it with you. I can get H&R Block to do my taxes. I need someone who can help me not make stupid mistakes. I have found that person after several disappointments.Dialogue is everything. Good luck.

I agree, the best way to find one is word of mouth. They should definitely be a CPA. Stay away from the "big box" tax preparers.

They don't necessarily have to be affiliated with a firm. Mine is an independent.

I have used mine for about ten years. When my returns were comparatively simple he was about $150--but I got a refund that more than made up for the cost. Now that my returns are very complex, he costs more, but I always get a refund over and above what the cost is (and much more than I would have gotten had I done the taxes myself).

When I was looking for a tax advisor, word of mouth was key. When someone gave me a referral, I ask them questions as if I was hiring an employee. What did you like about the service he/she performed? Is there anything you would do differently using this person? Did you view them as a valuable member of your team? and of course the ROI question Did he/she save you more money than you paid in fees. The relationship you develop with your clients is the most valuable asset you'll have and the biggest marketing machine.

It is absolutely essential that you find someone who is knowledgeable and keeps up on all the changes. With the Dems now in power, I'm sure there will be a whole new list of changes.

Other than that, I would ask them to characterize their style. Is it conservative, moderate, or aggressive. I would recommend someone who is moderate. An over-aggressive adviser could land you in jail, but that's not the reason I say to stay away from them. The real reason is that you will probably find your tax situation so complicated that when the loopholes that he is trying to use are closed, you will just end up paying him, or your regular accountant, more money to fix it. Any money you save from his advice will just end up in his pockets!

First off, references that you can actually check yourself. But, you need an educated and experienced advisor. For business purposes stay away from H&R Block. A CPA with more than just an AD and from a renowned firm would be best but expensive. Now, if this person can produce documentation that they have been studying all current tax laws that would be excellent but, many states don't require it. Check whatever state you live in for the local or statewide accounting board. They are basically the bar assn. for accountants. I personally have used mine for years but, that came from many recommendations from my friends and family..................that helped. So networking may work best for you.