the Cost of Personal Accounting Services

We have been using the same accountant for about 7 years. Our taxes are fairly simple this year but in the past both my husband and I have done consulting work, moved, had multiple jobs ,etc. We continue to use this guy because he really knows his stuff and helps us find any legal opportunity to lower our tax bill. He primarily works with doctors so we are almost like his charity case but that is fine with me because I feel like we are getting a deal.

We gather all our tax info together and have one hour long conversation with him. He has a list of questions to review but if something comes up, he is very good at investigating the potential benefit to our submission. In the end, he tells us what he needs and we make copies for ourselves and send it off. In a month, all the taxes are returned, ready to be signed and sent in. There are often instructions for next year like "lower your withholding at work" and it makes a difference when we do it. The fee is $500 for the accountant and an estimated $10 for copies and shipping to him.

In a month, all the taxes are returned, ready to be signed and sent in. There are often instructions for next year like "lower your withholding at work" and it makes a difference when we do it. I am very pleased and think the price, while high, is fair for the decrease in aggravation and the knowledge that we won't have any issues with our taxes.

Interview any potential accountant to ask who is their typical client, years in practice and familiarity with your type of tax situation. For example, if you do a lot of consultant work, make sure they are knowledgeable about all the potential write offs you could make.

Pay attention to the questions the accountant asks you. If they feel shady, like he/she are stretching for a place to deduct, you might not be comfortable because you will be the one who pays the price if it is not legal.

Ask for names and numbers of references to ask about the accountant's services.