[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by Haggar

I'm a CPA specializing in small businesses.
You commented that most tax preparers are just paperwork completers. Probably true of H & R Blocks preparers and similar firms. BUT a good tax preparer knows the rules and regulations and laws that can benefit S Corp owners. The IRS is constantly updating their regs and interpretations of the laws. Seen too many returns self-prepared that are incomplete or leave off valuable tax deductions. And it goes beyond just the income tax law - recently in reviewing the "sales tax paid" by a client discovered he was paying too much sales tax by $1,000. Like they say you get what you pay for and paying a qualified and knowledgable tax preparer may save you money.

Medical insurance, home office expenses, pension plans (simple, SEP, IRA, 401 (k)) , mileage, etc - does the average self-preparer have any idea of all the deductions available?

Just a question. You didn't mention anything about TurboTax. I owned small businesses for many years and always depended on TurboTax to keep up with the new tax laws and to guide me through the legal deductions. Don't most CPAs use tax software when they prepare a tax return?