Do you get frustrated easily with your taxes? You're not alone. Tax preparation can be a complex and difficult task, especially if you're not trained in tax planning. There are plenty of software and online tools to help you file and pay your taxes online. However, you may need help from a professional. A certified public accountant (CPA) can not only help you file your taxes but also find credits and deductions that could lower your bill. Below are a few signs that it's time for you to work with a CPA on your tax preparation.

You Typically Owe the Government a Significant Amount of Money

The number one sign you need a CPA is if you typically owe money on your tax return. This can often happen when you own a business or rental real estate, or if you have complex income streams. A CPA can help you find deductions and credits that can reduce your tax bill. They also may recommend business structures that minimize payroll taxes and other expenses. When you work with a CPA, you don't just get their tax prep services. You also get their knowledge and experience with the tax system so you can reduce your overall tax bill.

You Have Multiple Income Streams

Do you have income from a number of different sources? Perhaps you have a job, but also have investments, rental property, business ownership, and much more. Having multiple income streams can be a good thing because it typically means you have a sound financial base. However, it can also create complexity at tax time. Different income sources are taxed differently. Your business income may be treated much differently than stock dividends or rental income. A CPA will understand how these income sources are treated and how to report them. They may even save you some money in the process. At the very least, they will save you time because they will know how to file the taxes much more efficiently than you do.

You’re Disorganized

Filing taxes isn't for everyone. It requires a high level of organization, which isn't a strong suit for some people. You need records, receipts, and other documents so you can claim all the applicable deductions and credits. But if organization isn't your thing, tax time can be incredibly stressful. You might spend days or weeks tracking down documents and important data. When you work with a CPA, you can simply give those documents to them and they will handle the rest. Put documents in a folder or scan them as you receive them. When it's time to file, you give those documents to your CPA and they do the work. You don't have to deal with the stress and you can be confident that your data is in good hands.

Ready to get your taxes under control? Contact a CPA tax service in your area today. They can help you organize your taxes and file to maximize your deductions and credits.

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