So, its tax time again. What to do? What to do? Everywhere you go you see H & R Block advertisements. They have many convenient locations. And, you don't have an accountant you can trust. So, who "yuh gonna" call? H & R Block? NOT SO FAST.

H & R Block has some very SERIOUS PROBLEMS as a tax service. For the most part, their tax preparers have only marginal knowledge and abilities. Some are friendly and seem helpful. However, if a deduction is missed, you will pay the taxes. And, you are ultimately the one responsible for mistakes on your return. There is some protection regarding tax return preparation errors. H & R Block will pay for their mistakes. But, if they screw up, resulting in an audit, who will pay for your lost time and aggravation?

A zillion years ago, maybe less, I took a tax course from H & R Block. An associate of mine had the idea that we should prepare taxes. I was amazed at how easy it was to obtain a passing course grade. Thus, we were ready to work for H & R Block. Perhaps, but we were not competent by any stretch of the imagination.

If you think you save money using the services of the tax preparers at H & R Block, think again. As a practical matter, the best tax course graduate students go into private practice. After the class, I decided to let my C.P.A. do my taxes. I went on vacation to Singapore and let my associate fend for himself.

BETTER ALTERNATIVES

If you have a complex tax return, I strongly advise that you utilize the services of a competent C.P.A. If you do not have one, get referrals. Some may let you have a short free consultation. Find one that you feel confident in and can trust. If price is a problem, you may be able to work out payment arrangements. The service is tax deductible.

A GOOD CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT can help you legally avoid taxes. He or she can assist you in taking full advantage of your tax deductions and strategies. Do not expect this from H & R Block. If you need ERNST & YOUNG, don't be "penny wise and pound foolish."

Less complex returns can often be aptly prepared by an experienced and competent tax preparer, in private practice. Again, make sure you find one with a very good reputation.

Tax preparation SOFTWARE can provide assistance for many. And, in any case, it is better than putting your head on the BLOCK.

BE PREPARED

Regardless of the company or person you chose to prepare your taxes, please do your homework, so to speak.

Go to the www. Go to the many sites that provide free tax advice and information. Learn about the various tax deductions available. Tale a proactive role. Then, you can ask well researched questions of your tax specialist. You may even give him or her a strategy that may have otherwise been overlooked. Tax time is tough for overworked tax professionals. They will appreciate your input. If you have decided to become a victim, "errrr", client of H & R Block, you MUST do your homework, and a lot of it.

WE ALL PAY TAXES. If you want to reduce your tax liability, consider an alternative to H & R Block. I have heard enough HORROR STORIES to stay clear of them.



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