Most Americans dread tax time, and with the new tax laws that went into effect in 2018, more are hiring tax professionals to help them with their returns, says Ellen Rose of Sternbach & Rose CPAs, a women-owned full-service accounting firm in Valhalla.

“A tax professional can determine if you are under withholding,” Rose says. “They can also help with planning throughout the year, not just at tax time. When you have a financial decision to make, their advice can be invaluable.”

People whose tax situation is relatively simple might be tempted to use a commercial franchise preparer, but these services may only be sufficient for taxpayers who don’t itemize their deductions or who have no other income except their paycheck, she adds.

“Anything more complicated than that may end up costing you more at these franchise preparers than a certified public accountant,” she says. “Because these preparers are given a quick course in tax preparation and are much less knowledgeable of the tax code, they may miss deductions, and that could end up costing you more in taxes. A CPA generally charges an hourly rate or a flat fee, which may be cheaper than the franchise.” 

Location: Sternbach & Rose CPAs, 115 E. Stevens Ave., Ste. 100, Valhalla, NY. For more info or a free first-time consultation, call 914.940.4449, email [email protected] or visit STERNBACH & ROSE, CPAS - Valhalla, NY.