01 / The Person
Who Will Perform the Work?
Ask for the assigned professional’s name, credential, licensing jurisdiction, and experience with your type of issue. Verify the person rather than relying on the company name.
Choose with Understanding
Compare the Work.
Know the Person.
A provider’s name is only the beginning. Use the same questions to compare qualifications, scope, fees, and the support you would receive.
Five Questions Before You Commit
Make the Comparison Specific.
02 / The Work
What Exactly Am I Buying?
Request the agency, tax years, returns, submissions, and other deliverables in writing. Identify exclusions and who is responsible for missing records or additional filings.
03 / The Cost
What Is the Complete Fee?
Compare the total fee or fee basis, payment schedule, additional-work approval, cancellation terms, and refund provisions. Keep professional fees separate from tax payments and agency charges.
04 / The Communication
How Will I Know What Happens Next?
Ask who will provide updates, what those updates include, and how documents, deadlines, agency responses, and completion records will be shared.
05 / The Alternatives
Is There Another Useful Route?
Compare direct agency options, free or low-cost assistance, and a narrower professional engagement. A proposal should explain why its scope is appropriate for your circumstances.
Verify the Professional
Start with the Official Record.
These tools support your research. They do not replace a conversation about the specific work or a review of the agreement.
IRS Preparer Directory
Search preparers with certain credentials and qualifications. The directory does not list every valid preparer, and a listing does not evaluate case fit or service quality.
Open the Official ResourceCalifornia CPA Lookup
Use the California Board of Accountancy’s license resources to research the individual or firm. Outside California, check the relevant accountancy board.
Open the Official ResourceCalifornia Attorney Search
Find an attorney’s State Bar profile. For a lawyer licensed elsewhere, use the relevant jurisdiction’s licensing authority.
Open the Official ResourceCalifornia Lawyer Referral Services
Find State Bar-certified referral services by location and legal issue. Confirm the consultation terms and available services with the organization.
Open the Official ResourceDirectory sources checked October 10, 2026. No provider is ranked or recommended on this page.
Match the Authority to the Issue
Preparation and Representation Differ.
The IRS distinguishes preparing a return from representing a taxpayer. Attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents generally have broad representation rights before the IRS. Other preparers may have limited rights or no representation authority. Ask what the individual is authorized to do for your particular matter.
Read the IRS Credential Guidance
A credential is one part of the decision. Review relevant experience, the actual scope, communication, and price. Apply the same questions to any future Liberty Standard proposal.