MERCER ISLAND MONEY: Taxing Situations

It's tax season again. Have you gathered your essential documents to send to your tax preparer? Here are six things to consider before filing your tax returns, this year:

1. If you don't have the time, skills, experience or knowledge to prepare your own tax return, hire someone who has the skill set you require. If you need a tax plan that will help you with your current situation and into the future, look for a highly trained, licensed tax professional such as an Enrolled Agent or Certified Public Accountant to assist you.

2. Schedule an appointment to meet with your preparer, or to discuss your situation over the phone.

3. Locate all of your tax documents and complete a tax organizer so that you can send a complete packet of information to your preparer.

4. Be sure that your documents are neat, organized and legible. Most preparers don't have time-especially between February 1 and April 15-to organize your receipts and other miscellaneous supporting documents.

5. If you hear from your tax advisor, be sure to contact them as soon as possible with the information they need.

6. Don't expect your advisor to be able to prepare your tax return if you contact them after April 1st. If you have waited until the last minute, you'll likely need to file an extension.

Remember, your tax preparer is a trusted advisor who wants to help you. They will be much more effective if you are timely, organized and communicative. And your tax situation will be (hopefully) less taxing!