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Choosing a Tax Preparer
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It is important to find a tax preparer with the knowledge and experience to prepare your returns correctly.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue does not require tax preparers to be licensed, but we do expect them to follow standards of ethics and conduct. We may take action when they do not.
To find a current list of:
Whether or not a preparer is on one of these lists, you are ultimately responsible for your tax return. Choose a preparer carefully.
To find preparers with professional credentials or other qualifications recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), see the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers.
To report an unprofessional preparer to the department, contact us at individual.incometax@state.mn.us, or call 651-296-3781 or 1-800-652-9094 (toll-free).
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Take the time to ask potential preparers these questions:
- What kind of formal tax training do you have?
- Do you hold any professional licenses or designations, such as certified public accountant (CPA), enrolled agent (EA), registered accounting practitioner (RAP), accredited tax advisor (ATA), or accredited tax preparer (ATP)?
- Do you belong to any professional organizations?
- Do you take continuing professional education classes each year?
- How long have you been preparing tax returns?
- Have you ever done a tax return dealing with my situation?
- Can I contact you year-round?
- Have you ever been disciplined by any organization or governmental authority?
- Will you represent me if I’m audited?
- How much do you charge and how do you calculate your fees?
Other Considerations
- Be careful of tax preparers who claim to know “the secrets” of obtaining unusually large refunds.
- Be cautious if someone charges fees based on a percentage of your refund.
Never sign a blank tax form, even for your preparer.
For details on Minnesota tax preparer organizations and standards, visit these websites:
For details on national tax preparer organizations and standards, visit the IRS website.
