Evade that taxing feeling

reporting by Karen Nilson
We put our Comp Shopper in touch with three tax professionals to see what advice they offer to help you put the “fun” in refund ... or at least minimize the headache of filing.
  Conrad, Craig & Martin
7234 W.Touhy Ave.
Chicago
773-631-7688
Porte Brown LLC
845 Oakton St.
Elk Grove Village
847-956-1040
Fred M. Power Jr. CPA
1122 Westgate St.
Oak Park
708-386-4500
Who we talked to
JEFF WOCHINSKI, PARTNER
JOELLEN JOHNSON,
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
FRED M. POWER JR., OWNER
When is the best time of year for clients to call for an appointment?
starting in January
after the first of the year
January, February or March
What are the most important things to bring to an appointment?
W-2s, 1099s and, for
new clients, a past return
last year’s return,W-2s, 1099s,
property tax bill, interest and
dividend statements
last year’s return and any
information they feel
is necessary
Is there a minimum fee for service? How do you determine the fee?
no; based on time
no; based on number
of forms used
no; based on time
How are returns filed?
electronic filing available
at an extra charge
most are done electronically
by mail
Do more people owe money or get money back?
“More people get refunds.”
“Typical returns usually
get a refund.”
“More people get refunds.”
What is your role if one of your clients is audited?
“We can handle all Internal
Revenue Service needs.”
“If we filed the return, and the
information we were given is correct, we will handle the audit.”
“They can either have me represent them, or I will go with them.”
What is your worst nightmare when meeting with a client for the first time?
“When they are unaware
of missing information.”
“When someone brings in a
box of papers and we have to
go through them.”
“Someone that comes
in totally unorganized.”
What should people consider when deciding whether to prepare their own taxes or seek professional help?
“Do you have the time,
confidence and tools
available to do it yourself?”
“It's a good idea to call ahead
and talk to someone to help
determine this.”
“They need to consider
the complexity of their
own return.”
When should people consider filing for an extension?
“When there is missing
information at the normal
filing deadline.”
“An extension should be filed
by the first week in April.”
“April 10 at the latest.”

For access to thousands of unbiased reports and reviews on service companies in your area, join Angie's List today.