The most common role of a tax consultant is that of tax preparer. Both the public and the corporate world alike need help preparing and filing their tax returns. This is a valuable service since improper filing can lead to the paying of penalties. A taxpayer can also miss out on rebates if their tax returns are not prepared correctly. A tax consultant can save large companies or corporations tens of thousands of dollars in penalties by preparing and filing their tax returns for them. The consultant is extremely useful during an audit also. Generally the consultant will be allowed to act as a representative for the taxpayer or company being audited. This means the consultant can answer many of the questions asked by the tax officials.
A second role of the consultant is that of tax advisor. This would include such things as changing how a business is set up. Maybe a partnership wants to incorporate or a sole proprietorship takes on a partner. Another thing a consultant may give advice on is rearranging payments and income to fall into a different tax year.
Something else a tax consultant does is help with estate, gift, and trust services, allowing you to leave a legacy for others.
It is not uncommon for the tax consultant to have an area of expertise. This could include such things as property taxation, business taxation, trusts, estates, or tax law regarding charities. Usually the specialist will have formal training in that particular field and will have experience dealing with such cases.
The rules for obtaining a tax consultant's license vary from state to state. There are some things that always apply however. For instance a person applying for a tax conultant license must be 18 years of age. They must be able to furnish proof of experience in the trade and they must demonstrate a knowledge of tax law and tax preparation.
Tax consultants charge fees in various ways. Some may charge a flat fee, some base their fee on the amount of time they spend on a project, and others may charge a percentage of any rebate they are able to obtain.
There are many professionals available to the public and to large companies alike. It is always a wise idea to shop around to find the one that fits best.
Get up-to-date information on all things related to tax and see how tax consultants can assist you.