CPA vs. TurboTax®

As tax time approaches many people often wonder if they should use a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or an online tax preparation service such as TurboTax®.

Let’s first look at the role of the CPA.

CPAs are well trained financial experts that have in depth knowledge of business, including income tax preparation, venture capital, estate planning, payroll processing, bookkeeping and forensic accounting to name a few.

Unlike TurboTax®, a CPA can sit down with you and directly answer any questions you might have about how to maximize your tax return. They can also identify eligible tax saver credits and numerous tax deductions.

While 21 percent of Americans use tax software to do their own taxes, 60 percent of Americans still use a live person. Even with the emergence of newer technology and various ways we use the internet to make life easier, people still trust their most important asset, their money, to a trustworthy and knowledgeable Certified Public Accountant.

TurboTax® serves as a virtual accountant to assist tax payers in doing their taxes with step-by-step guidance. But some tax deductions can be complicated and best handled by a professional. Having your taxes done by a CPA ensures that your taxes are done accurately, which can bring peace of mind if you are ever audited; this alone can outweigh the use of tax software, for many.

At Sansone, we guide our clients through a full range of tax planning and preparation decisions to minimize your tax liabilities. Our expertise and experience allow us to optimize opportunities in the application of tax rules.

For more information about how we can help you maximize your tax return, call us at 815-459-4300