Need help filing your federal tax return, but aren’t sure where to start to find a tax preparer? Start with these three easy steps:

1. Watch our Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer video.
2. Visit our Choosing a Tax Return Preparer Get Help page.
3. Use the IRS directory of preparers to find one near you, that’s right for you.

If you decide to have a tax return preparer prepare and file your income tax return, it is important to choose the preparer carefully because you are trusting them with your personal information and to have the proper knowledge to help you file an accurate tax return. So, read our What Should I do? section, on our Get Help page, for what type of information to look for and what questions to ask before you make your final choice.

Don’t forget, certain taxpayers can qualify for free professional help in preparing and filing returns, through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). So, check here too to see if you might qualify before incurring preparation fees.

Remember: A paid tax return preparer is required by law to sign the return and include their preparer tax identification number (PTIN) on it. 

For more information about filing federal tax returns and the options you have to do that, see our other Filing Returns Get Help pages.

Tax Filing Resources

TAS

• Options for Filing a Tax Return
• Free File Options
• Tax Return Preparer Fraud

IRS

• Filing information for Individuals
• Filing information for Businesses and Self-employed
• Filing information for Charities and Nonprofits
• Need someone to prepare your tax return?
• Things to think about when choosing a tax preparer
• Topic No. 254 How to Choose a Tax Return Preparer