Contact local CPAs or tax professionals to see if they can offer their services without in-person contact. Many firms can operate remotely or virtually, and others that typically operate face-to-face may be changing their procedures to keep up with social distancing guidelines. Trained accountants and bookkeepers manage financial complexities and offer practical business solutions. With access to 1M+ customer reviews and the pros’ work history, you’ll have all the info you need to make a hire. Look for a bookkeeper or an accountant near you in the Xero advisor directory, or use our match-making tool to find the perfect pair of hands.

Accountants do not automatically have a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation unless they have passed the Uniform CPA Examination and received the proper license. CPAs are also eligible to represent clients before the IRS if audit support is required, while a non-CPA accountant is not. Academic background, years in the field and professional reputation all can affect an accountant’s rates. On average, individual tax preparation services cost $242, and prices typically range from $137- $454. However, many factors can impact how much an accountant will charge you for tax assistance.

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The IRS explains that CPAs, attorneys and enrolled agents are all allowed to legally represent their clients before the IRS. They have a more thorough understanding of tax code than an individual operating solely with a PTIN or an Annual Filing Season Program participant who provides their services on a volunteer basis. Consider bookkeeping the complexity of your tax return and what level of expertise you’ll require. Before entrusting someone with your private financial and personal information, do some research on their qualifications. The IRS has a searchable database where you can verify the background and credentials of your income tax preparation professional.

Accountants’ rates vary based on their education, licenses, experience, and the work for which they are being hired. An accountant may charge an hourly rate when a company or individual needs their services on a short-term basis, such as when performing an audit or requesting assistance setting up a financial database or process. Hourly rates can range as widely as $40 per hour to $300 or more per hour, depending on your geographic location and the accountant.

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For an accurate price estimate, request quotes from several certified public accountants (CPAs) near you. Accountants are financial professionals who have received an accounting degree from a four-year university or college. By trade, accountants prepare, maintain and examine the financial statements of an individual, business or institution. An accountant prepares reports for tax purposes and can also perform audits of public companies. According to the American Institute of CPAs, certified public accountant (CPAs) financially advise individuals, big companies and small businesses to help them reach their financial goals. Nationally, the average hourly rate nationally for a tax prep professional ranges between $150 and $450.

Once you have selected someone, ask about their service fees and confirm their availability. Then provide them with all the documentation they require, including W-2s, 1099s and more. Always ask to review the paperwork before it is submitted, and never sign a blank tax return.

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They often work closely with law enforcement and lawyers, and they can help determine the legality of financial activities, according to the BLS. There are 116 five star quickbooks bookkeepers in New York, New York on Thumbtack. Find an accountant or bookkeeper who knows your niche, speaks your language, or is close by—whatever works best for you.

See how to get listed in the Xero advisor directory and how to make the most of the opportunity. Your accountant or bookkeeper can be a valued business advisor so check what to look for when you choose one. All firms listed in the directory have staff members trained in Xero and eight or more clients on Xero. Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes involving fraud, embezzlement and other issues.

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Accountants may offer a package rate for weekly, monthly or annual services to reward ongoing customers. For basic monthly accounting services, an accountant might charge anywhere from $75 to $500 or more, depending on what was included in a given package, the size of the client’s business, and the complexity of work requested. Nationally, full-time staff accountants earn between $40,000 and $80,000, depending on experience and other factors. Any individual with a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) is eligible to file your income taxes on your behalf. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they will be the best candidate to provide the help you need with your income tax preparation.

• For basic monthly accounting services, an accountant might charge anywhere from $75 to $500 or more, depending on what was included in a given package, the size of the client’s business, and the complexity of work requested.
• The IRS explains that CPAs, attorneys and enrolled agents are all allowed to legally represent their clients before the IRS.
• Academic background, years in the field and professional reputation all can affect an accountant’s rates.
• Many firms can operate remotely or virtually, and others that typically operate face-to-face may be changing their procedures to keep up with social distancing guidelines.