Should you do your own taxes?

The federal tax code is complicated. What you're really paying for is guidance that can minimize your tax bill and maximize your wealth.
Please ensure javascript is enabled in your browser and that Flash Player 8 or above is installed.
By Jeff Schnepper

Should you do your own taxes or hire the job out?

It's not what you know that's important here. It's what you don't know … or, more to the point, what you think you know and really don't.

Bear in mind, our federal tax code is complicated and convoluted. We have rules, exceptions to those rules and exclusions from the exceptions. Because of the extenders passed late last year, some of our tax forms are already out of date. All of the computer tax preparation programs had to be redone.

If you have a simple return, you might consider e-filing or using a simple tax program. But remember, you're not hiring a tax pro just to put numbers in boxes. Any monkey can do that.

Rate this Article

Click on one of the stars below to rate this article from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) LowRate it 1Rate it 2Rate it 3Rate it 4Rate it 5High