Ask a CPA is a free service that allows you to ask one of the thousands of licensed and verified accountants in our network for advice about your most pressing tax questions. Once you submit your tax question, we will share it with every accountant in our network.

How far back are you responsible for taxes?

six years
The IRS requires you to go back and file your last six years of tax returns to get in their good graces. Usually, the IRS requires you to file taxes for up to the past six years of delinquency, though they encourage taxpayers to file all missing tax returns if possible. Payment plans can be arranged with the IRS.

Are tax accountants responsible for mistakes?

Q: If a tax preparer makes a mistake, who has to pay? A: Ordinarily the taxpayer will be responsible for any additional income tax, but the preparer can potentially be held liable for the additional penalties and interest. Most reputable preparers will cover the penalties and interest related to their own mistakes.

What to do if your accountant messes up your taxes?

If the error seems to be the result of an honest mistake, you can ask your preparer to take the necessary corrective steps, including filing an amended return. When the mistake results in fees or penalties, the service provider will often compensate the customer directly in order to smooth things over.

What should I ask my accountant about my taxes?

While your tax year is likely over by the time you meet with your accountant, you may still be able to reduce your tax bill. Talk to your accountant about what options are available to you. One of the most common ways to reduce your tax liability after the tax year is over is to contribute money to an individual retirement account (IRA).

What’s the best way to ask an expert about taxes?

When you run into a question that’s keeping you from getting your taxes finished, it can help to ask an accountant online. The Experts on JustAnswer are a fast and affordable source of accurate tax information, and can save you the time and expense of scheduling a visit to an accountant. Click here to learn how to file back taxes.

Do you have to ask questions to get tax deductions?

Many business owners make spending decisions with the hopes that it will be deducted, and yet neglect to ask the question first! According to the IRS, anything hat is helpful and appropriate for your business is deductible.

What makes an accountant a good tax accountant?

“We tend to think of accountants as numbers people, but a good accountant does more than just figure the numbers,” says Ed Lyon, co-founder of the American Institute for Certified Tax Coaches. “A good accountant will communicate what the numbers mean to us.”