Tax preparer has plenty of exceptions to advertised fee | Dave Lieber | News from Fort W...

Select a tax preparer with the same caution used in selecting a doctor, lawyer or other service professional.

Check credentials. Ideally, a tax preparer should be a certified public accountant, enrolled agent or a tax lawyer. Preparers belonging to professional organizations usually must follow a code of ethics.

Don't fall for the promise of a big refund.

Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the refund.

Read the agreement before you hire the company and know what you are getting. Understand the full cost. Find out if the preparer will represent you in case of an audit.