This is a question we get when new clients call us and unfortunately it happens. It’s never fun getting ignored by someone, especially your tax preparer.

First of all, it may be time to consider a new tax preparer. We always recommend sticking to the same preparer, as switching too much (for example: every year) is not good and could create inconsistencies that may cause red flags for an audit.

However, if you’re not able to reach your tax preparer in a timely fashion, it may not be the level of service you deserve or need.

Here are some steps you can take to try to reach your tax preparer:

1. Email

Email them so you have record of your correspondence. Have it in writing, especially if there are documents that still need to be returned to you, is the first best step.

2. Call

Call them and if possible, text them. If you can’t reach them after multiple attempts move on to the next step.

3. Send a letter

Send a physical letter to their address. This letter should outline the situation, items needed, urgency etc. and we recommend sending it with certified mail to ensure it is received. This is another form of writing that will be good to have on record. Sending a letter is especially important if you need to retrieve documents.

4. Social media

Consider finding them on social media, for example, LinkedIn, and sending them a direct message. It might do the trick.

5. Go in person

If you have an address they conduct business, it would be a good idea to go in person to try to speak to your preparer, especially if your documents are there and you would like to retrieve them. Perhaps going in person can give you insight of the situation. In unfortunate cases, such as the preparer passing, sometimes the practice may be sold to a new owner or closed altogether. You may be able to gain insight on how to retrieve the files and who is in charge.

If you do not feel comfortable going in person, it may be worth it to contact a marshal to go on your behalf.

6. Hire another tax preparer

It is likely time to move on to a professional that will provide the service you deserve. A lot of the time we see tax preparers ignoring clients because they simply are too busy. However, you deserve better.

Getting a response back in times of need, especially if you receive an IRS or state notice, is a perfect example of a time you might need to lean on your tax preparer. That’s the benefit of having a professional take care of your filing.

Once you hire someone else and explain your situation, they should be able to help. If you have unresolved notices with the IRS, your new preparer will likely want a power of attorney to try to resolve the issue. Hopefully your issues will be resolved at this point and you can move on.

7. Report your old tax preparer

Depending on the situation, you might consider reporting your old tax preparer if they have brought you to a situation that is unethical and illegal. For example, if your old tax preparer told you that they have filed your return and you paid them to do so, then you receive a letter from the IRS and discover that your return was never filed, you have the right to take action and seek justice.

Consider filing a report with the Better Business Bureau here or directly with the IRS here.

8. Seek legal help/Hire an attorney

If further justice is needed, it might be the last resort to seek legal help. Perhaps you may consider small claims court or hiring an attorney. Having an attorney send an official letter, could help resolve the issue at hand. This level of formally with hopefully resolve all issues. Depending on the situation, if nothing above helps, you may consider suing; the last resort we hope you won’t have to arrive at.

You deserve a tax preparer that will respond to you in a timely fashion and give you the respect and caliber of professional service you deserve.

We strive on customer service and always try to respond same day, or 1-2 business days during our busy tax season. Regardless, we always have clients come to us and feel refreshed with our faster response time.

Tax season is stressful, but that’s why your professional tax preparer should make it as easy and stress free as possible.

If you’re still getting ghosted and would like to make a switch, we’re happy to help you navigate this frustrating situation and look forward to our partnership. Contact us today!