How to Select Tax and Estate Planning Advisors

A presentation outline for the Elder Law seminar entitled Selecting Competent Tax, Financial, Estate Planning and Other Legal Professionals to Help Aging Persons, held at the Holiday Park Multiservice Senior Center in Wheaton, MD on May 19, 2009

        I.      Identify your needs

A.     Preparation of  a personal tax return

B.     Preparation of a business tax return

C.     Budget advice

D.     Investment advice

E.      Estate planning

     II.      Categories of professionals who can help

A.     Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

B.     Enrolled Agent (EA)

C.     Tax Preparer

D.     Tax Attorney

E.      Estate Planning Attorney

   III.      Factors to consider

A.     Geographic proximity

B.     Cost

C.     Size of the practice

D.     Educational background and professional experience

E.      Is the professional available to you or too busy to answer your calls

F.      Are there staff members of the professional who can offer assistance

  IV.      How do I find the professional?

A.     Word of mouth – friends and family

B.     Interview the individual

C.     Interview a number of individuals before deciding

D.     Check with the Better Business Bureau and/or State licensing authority