Tax preparation and tax preparer selection is not all that difficult, but there are those who make it difficult by not adhering to a few simple rules. It begins with choosing your tax preparer carefully and carefully communicating with that preparer once he or she is chosen. It begins with choosing your preparer carefully.

Here are questions you can ask your tax preparer before you get started.

1. What are your qualifications?

A CPA or Enrolled agent are the best qualified to do taxes. Both of these designations regularly take classes and take an exam for their designations. A CPA or certified public accountant is the highest qualified.

2. Would you be willing to lie on my return?

If your preparer says yes, run as fast as you can. This can get both of you in trouble so why would he/or she be willing to lie. Perhaps your preparer is not licensed. Licensed preparers can loose their designation if they are caught lying on a return.

3. How is your information protected in their office?

The computer and back up files should be secure after hours. All paper files should be secured in locked cabinets. Identity theft is on the rise.

4. What are your cost?

Agree on a tax preparation before you hand over your information, so there are no surprises.

5. Can I pay you extra to re-check my return against documents I have given you?

Ask your preparer to re-check your return. If you have the ability to check your return against your documents that is fine. But, you absolutely should check for the small things: correct spelling of your name, correct social security number, correct occupation, correct income, and any other minor items, which could turn major if entered incorrectly.

6. How Long Will It Take?

It is your responsibility to organize your tax information and submit it to your tax preparer early. It is your tax preparers responsibility to get the information back to you in a timely manner, so you can file your taxes well before the tax deadline.

Lois Center-Shabazz is the founder of the personal finance website, http://www.MsFinancialSavvy.com and author of the 3-time award-winning personal finance book, Let's Get Financial Savvy! ISBN #0971979502.

• IRS Gets Tough on Collection of Large Tax Debts


• Getting the Biggest Benefit From Tax Help


• Choosing a Tax Preparer - Dont Assume


• Starting the Year Off Right


• State Taxes


• Federal Income Tax


• Local Taxes


• Payroll Taxes


• Self-Employment Tax


• Understanding Employee Taxes


• Home Office - Tax Perspective


• Automobile Expenses - Tax Write-Offs