When to Call a CPA, and When You Need a Lawyer

Running a small business means juggling many roles, and when tax season comes around, it’s tempting to handle everything on your own. But be careful… Doing it yourself can sometimes lead to serious issues.

So, who’s your best bet: your reliable CPA or a friendly tax attorney? Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.

What a CPA Brings to the Table

A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is your go-to for all things bookkeeping, tax prep, and financial planning. They’ll crunch your numbers, find legal deductions, and file your tax returns. If you’re running a business and trying to stay compliant, they’re a great partner.

But when things get complicated, like an audit, a dispute, or a tax debt you can’t pay, a CPA might be out of their depth. More importantly, conversations with a CPA aren’t protected by attorney-client privilege. That means if the IRS comes knocking, anything you told your CPA could be used against you.

What a Tax Attorney Does (That a CPA Can’t)

A tax attorney steps in when things get serious. If you’re facing an IRS audit, a collection letter, or a substantial tax bill, we can negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, represent you in court.

We also bring something critical to the table: confidentiality. Anything you share with your tax attorney is protected by law, just like talking to your lawyer in any other legal case.

Tax attorneys are experts at resolving IRS disputes, removing liens, setting up payment plans, filing Offers in Compromise, and protecting your assets when the IRS is breathing down your neck.

So, Who Should You Call?

It really depends on your personal situation. Many business owners find that working with both a CPA for regular financial guidance and a tax attorney for more complex legal tax matters works best for them.

Some things to consider:

• If you’re filing taxes, tracking expenses, or planning next year’s budget? You want a CPA.
• If you’re in hot water with the IRS, owe a large tax debt, or are facing penalties or enforcement? You need a tax attorney.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

A lot of people wait until their wages are being garnished or their bank account gets levied to ask for help. Don’t be that person.

If you’ve found a frightening letter from the IRS or you’re feeling behind on your taxes and don’t know where to turn, this is a great moment to reach out to a friendly tax attorney.

We’re here to help business owners like you every day, tackling IRS issues of all sizes. Planning or negotiating, you can count on us to support you every step of the way.

Let’s get ahead of your tax issue before it gets worse. Reach out and get answers to your situation.