You may need a tax preparer if you:

--Hate to figure your taxes

--Lack the time or patience to fill out the forms

--Are confused or frustrated by tax forms or the filing process

--    Are unclear about your deductions and credits

--    Are unsure of the tax laws.

Without a tax preparer, many people would be unable to file accurate returns.

You may also need a tax preparer if you:

--    Have a complicated financial or family situation

--    Have a major life change, such as marriage or divorce

--    Have a high income or a large number of itemized deductions

--    Have self-employment or rental income

--    Have a large amount of investment income

--    Have a business

--    Have refinanced your home

--    Have sold your home, rental property, or investments

--    Have inherited a large sum

--    Owe alternative minimum tax

--    Are affected by last-minute changes in the tax code.

You may find that a tax preparer:

--    Can help you avoid common mistakes

--    Can help you avoid overpaying or underpaying your taxes

--    Is familiar with recent changes in the tax code

--    May discover that you have overpaid in the past and assist you in securing a refund

--    Can help you avoid future tax liabilities

--    Can assist you in the event of a tax audit.

However, you are responsible for any additional taxes, interest, and penalties resulting from mistakes made by your tax preparer.

If your income is all from wages, interest, and dividends and you are claiming the standard deduction, you may be able to prepare your own tax return. You can find out more about whether you need a tax preparer from Charles Schwab, and you can learn about free volunteer tax preparers from the IRS.