Why I have a CPA

***This is not a sponsored post. For clarity’s sake, my CPA is my sister, Leslie.***

While we had a few extra days, the impending doom of of filling out and filing taxes is upon us. Our tax situation has varied in our married life: we have filed taxes in four states in three years. We’ve filed with two full-time jobs, a deployment, contracting work, and part-time jobs. Here’s why I take advantage of Leslie’s generous offer to be my CPA for free (and why hiring a CPA is worth your money).

1. CPAs check your work.
   I’m a pro at putting my student loan interest in the wrong boxes. Leslie kindly looks over my Turbo Tax information to verify that everything is in order.
2. This is their job (for tax accountants).
   I personally fill out my taxes and have Leslie double check me. While she lives in PA and we’re in CO, her knowledge is very extensive about federal tax stuff and makes sure that we’re up-to-date on what’s happening. She also knows where to look slash where to guide me for state-specific tax questions (like Colorado’s new law about in-state tax exemption for service members).
3. You reduce your chance for problems during audits.
   The IRS can and does audit whomever they please whenever they please. Using a CPA, especially if you have an unusual tax situation, you are less likely to have a problem.
4. They can help you navigate federal and state tax law.
   CPAs can help with filing the correct forms and reporting income and interest correctly. You can apply for an extension if you’re having trouble with your finances.

Do y’all have a CPA?