Software or Accountant Help: How to File Tax Returns Better
Every year before filing tax returns, we think about whether to fill everything out ourselves using tax programs or hire a professional? Both options have their pros and cons, and the right decision depends on your tax situation. We consulted with representatives of the company about the nuances of filing tax returns USA Taxes Pro

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When to File Tax Returns
The last day to file your 2024 tax return, or tax day, is Tuesday, April 15, 2025. You must file your return with the IRS and pay your taxes by then. But you should start taking stock of your finances and choosing a filing method now.
When you can rely on tax programs and file your own tax return
There is no shortage of tax filing programs and apps in the US. They are fairly easy to use and inexpensive (or even free). Plus, you don't have to go anywhere, you just sit down at your computer at home at a time convenient for you and fill out the declaration. But there is one "but". Such programs are the average temperature in the ward. If you have a simple and typical tax situation, they work. Any deviation from the average and simple - and the program does not know what to do with you. Or even worse - makes mistakes in the declaration.
Therefore, only those who have simple declarations, i.e. those that do not require complex calculations and include a minimum number of forms, should resort to the help of programs. They usually cover situations when:
- A person has only one (maximum two) sources of income, for example, wages on the W-2 form.
- There are no deductions or they are minimal — standard deductions are used rather than itemized ones.
- No additional forms - for example, related to income from business, investments, renting something out, or owning property.
When to Hire a Professional to File Your Tax Returns
Professional help is needed if you have a complex declaration:
- multiple sources of income or deductions (working for Uber or DoorDash makes the tax process much more complicated because the company won't give you a W-2, it didn't pay your taxes for you - as a result, you have to figure everything out yourself, remembering the categories and rates);
- there is income received in another country;
- your tax situation has changed (you moved to another state, bought a home, started renting something out, bought stocks, etc.).
Also, if you have recently moved to the US and this is your first declaration, it is better not to take risks and turn to a professional - you may misunderstand something or make mistakes, not take into account some deductions and pay more than you should.
A professional accountant's services are more expensive than filing your own tax return, but they are worth it if you are a beginner or have a complex income system.
Company USA Taxes.Pro will prepare a declaration of any complexity for you: individual, for business, for pensioners, for those who use ITIN. Russian-speaking accountants with many years of experience will solve any tax problem.
There are at least three advantages to using an accountant to prepare your tax return.
1. Best software
Professional accounting software is more sophisticated than products sold to consumers. These advanced programs can quickly scan information and enter it into forms correctly. However, any errors in the system will be noticed by a professional accountant during an audit, but you may not notice them.
2. Expert knowledge
Many taxpayers and businesses work with experienced accountants to better understand their financial situation and future goals. The value of their advice and solutions far outweighs the cost of consulting a professional. For example, a tax accountant can advise on how to save for children's education or reduce capital gains taxes.
3. Saving time
Taxpayers who find themselves faced with complex business and investment issues can successfully sort out their taxes. But it will take time, a lot of time. And here comes the logical question: what is more valuable - your time or your money? Professional tax preparers are familiar with the system and will quickly solve problems that can take even experienced taxpayers hours to research. So it makes sense to pay a specialist and not create problems and headaches for yourself.
You can find a professional accountant in the USA in the company USA Taxes.Pro. There are specialists with many years of experience working there who will prepare a declaration of any complexity.
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Final World
If you have a complicated return that requires special forms and calculations, it makes sense to hire a tax professional to fill out the forms correctly and ensure you get the maximum refund. If you have a simple return, you can save money and file it yourself using special software. But this is only if you have some understanding of the US tax system and can verify the return, and not blindly trust the program.
Material prepared in partnership with
Web: www.usataxes.pro
Mobile: 1 (305) 703-1040
Telegram: t.me/ustaxes
Instagram: lena_adams_ea
Read also on ForumDaily:
How to Choose a Qualified Accountant to File Your Tax Return: Tips from the IRS
Nine Important Financial Transactions to Make Before the End of the Year
Tax rates for 2024: what you need to know when filing a tax return
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