Warning: Not Everyone Who “Does Taxes” Is a Qualified Tax Preparer
- Samantha van de Kamp
- 41 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Filing your taxes is more than just filling out forms — it requires accuracy, compliance, and trust. One of the most important steps you can take as a taxpayer is making sure the person preparing your return is properly credentialed and recognized by the IRS.
Many people are surprised to learn that not everyone offering to “do your taxes” is actually authorized or credentialed to prepare them. In some cases, individuals assist with data entry or software use, but the return is ultimately filed as self-prepared. This means if there are errors, audits, or issues later, the responsibility falls entirely on you — not the person who helped you.
The Internal Revenue Service maintains a public resource called the Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers. This directory allows you to verify whether a tax professional holds IRS-recognized credentials or participates in continuing education programs required to stay current with tax laws.
Using the IRS directory helps protect you from unqualified preparers, reduces the risk of costly mistakes, and provides peace of mind knowing your return is being handled by someone who meets established professional standards.
What Is a “Ghost Preparer”?
A ghost preparer is someone who assists with a tax return but does not sign it or include their information as the paid preparer. In these cases, the return is often filed as self-prepared, meaning the person who helped you is not accountable if errors or issues arise later. This is not always obvious to taxpayers, which is why verifying credentials and preparer information is so important.
At Personalized Bookkeeping and Tax Services, returns are prepared in-house, and our owner, Donna Blackwell, is an IRS Enrolled Agent. This is the highest credential awarded by the IRS. Enrolled Agents are federally licensed and have unlimited practice rights, meaning they are authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS in all 50 states — not just Tennessee.
Before filing your taxes — whether with a new provider or someone you’ve worked with before — taking a moment to confirm credentials is a simple step that can make a significant difference in your overall tax experience and protection.
Not sure who should prepare your taxes? If you have questions about credentials, what to look for in a tax professional, or how to get started, our team is happy to help. Contact our office to speak with a knowledgeable, local team and learn how we can support you this tax season.
Contact Our Office: (615) 773-2736
