Are you less likely to get audited if your tax returns are prepared by professionals such as H&R Block?

Answer 1

no

Answer 2

The only reason this would be true is that you will probably not try to claim more than you legally can. The IRS has "red flag" areas that cause more scrutiny of a return. These include high deductions for charities and high expenses for services such as medical or travel. I used Block a few years ago and also paid extra for Rapid Refund. My return got audited (nothing wrong was found) so my return took longer than not requesting Rapid, and I did not get the money back that I paid Block.

Answer 3

Not normally, but selecting the wrong tax preparer can actually INCREASE your chance of being audited.

When it comes to parsing returns for the likelihood of an audit, the name of the preparer isn't often looked at. Generally, the IRS selects returns for audit based upon the probability of their being able to collect additional tax based upon statistical analysis of the return. If the return is properly prepared, it shouldn't matter who actually prepared the retun.

Some tax preparers may advise a taxpayer that certain items in their tax return MIGHT constitute an "audit flag" by the IRS but if you are entitled to the claimed tax treatment and have adequate proof of your position (receipts, etc.) you should NOT let the possibility of an audit influence how your return is prepared. On the other hand if your position is weak or you are missing required documentation, you might want to forego the deduction and lessen the chance of an audit.

However, if the specific tax preparer has a history of abusive practices, any return prepared by that preparer may be selected for audit based on the preparer's ID alone.

Answer 4

nope, as long as they're prepared by a CPA...H and R block are no more professionals than the local accounting office in your neighborhood. I chose my accountant by other peoples recommendations. As far as audits, its usually self-employed folks who need to worry.

Answer 5

Heck no, and the extra money they take of your return doesn't help either. It is almost criminal.