Choosing a tax resolution company to handle your tax problems is an important step on the #RoadToResolution. But who should you choose? In previous posts, we’ve gone over if you should hire a professional to resolve your tax problems (short answer – yes) as well as reasons to choose a CPA and not a tax attorney. Here, we are going to touch on the process a little bit.
Of course, like with any purchase or hire you make, you got to do some 
research first. Take the time to learn about the firm you are looking to hire – research them online, read reviews from previous clients, see if they offer a free consultation. You want to make sure you are getting the most current and sound advice from the tax resolution company you choose to handle your tax problems.
Ask these 5 questions before you sign on with a tax resolution company:
- Are you licensed? – This may seem like a formality, but it is important. You want to be sure you are speaking with someone who is legally able to provide you with current and proper tax resolution advice. That means you are looking for an Enrolled Agent (EA) or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). There should be no issue with being able to speak with a licensed and qualified tax resolution professional.
- Who will be handling my case? – You do not want to tell your tax problems to just anyone. Be sure to speak with the person who will be handling your case before discussing any details of your tax problems or sharing any documentation. You want your case in the hands of someone specifically qualified to deal with the IRS or state taxing authority.
- What is your Better Business Bureau rating? – Ask for the BBB
rating, then check it for yourself as part of your online research about the firm. Some things you may want to focus your search on include: licensing information, how long have they been in business and does the firm have any prior complaints. - How much tax resolution negotiation experience do you have? – This relates back to question two. You want the person handling your case to have actual experience negotiating with the IRS or state taxing authority. Ultimately you want the trifecta of licensed, trained and experienced when it comes to who represents you and handles your case.
- What services are covered in your rates and fees? – Make sure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved and what services you are receiving. Get any estimate that you are quoted in writing. Ask to see a billing policy or current schedule of fees. There should be no hidden fees or surprises.
One Last Thing
Let’s answer these questions for Strategic Tax Resolution.
- Greg Talbott, Founder & Director of Strategic Tax Resolution, is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) with over 20 years of tax experience.
- The professional and courteous staff at Strategic Tax Resolution is available to answer any questions you may have before and during the tax resolution process. Following a short intake process, you will speak directly with a personal account manager, the licensed tax resolution specialist that will go over the details of your case.
- Strategic Tax Resolution is A+ rated by the BBB and is a member of the American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS). We invite you to check our BBB profile. We even give you the link on our website (see below – bottom left for the BBB logo).
- As mentioned previously, our tax professionals have over two decades of experience in helping individuals and small business with tax issues. Strategic Tax Resolution hits that trifecta of licensed, trained and experienced.
- Strategic Tax Resolution features upfront pricing – fees agreed to in advance. You will know the costs and what services you are receiving before any payment information changes hands. No hidden fees. No surprises.