Can anyone recommend tax preparers that give sign-up bonuses for 2025 filing season?

Do you think the big chains are generally more expensive than independent preparers? And are there significant quality differences between them? I'm trying to decide between going with someone local or a recognized name.

Big chains typically charge more than independent preparers, especially for returns with any complexity beyond the basic forms. You're paying for their overhead, marketing, and brand name. The quality difference really depends on the individual preparer rather than the company - there are excellent preparers at chains and terrible independent ones. What matters most is finding someone with experience in your specific situation. If you have investments, rental properties, or self-employment income, look for a preparer who specializes in those areas. Ask about their experience, credentials, and continuing education. A good preparer should ask you detailed questions about your financial situation during the consultation.

How does it compare to having a human preparer? I'm always nervous about AI systems missing context that a person would understand. Did you actually talk to anyone during the process?

Does it work for people who are self-employed? I have a small business and a rental property so my taxes are kinda complicated. Also wondering about their accuracy guarantee - do they cover you if there's an audit?

I actually did talk to real tax professionals throughout the process. The AI just handles the document analysis and flags potential issues, but actual CPAs review everything and handle the final filing. It felt more thorough than my previous human-only preparer because nothing slipped through the cracks. For self-employed situations, that's actually their specialty. They're particularly good at finding deductions for small business owners and rental property situations. And yes, they do offer audit protection - they'll represent you at no additional cost if you're audited for a return they prepared.

Wait, I'm confused. You pay a service to call the IRS for you? How does that even work? Couldn't you just call them yourself and wait on hold?

Yeah right. Nobody gets through to the IRS that quickly. I've tried calling dozens of times this month and can't even get in the queue. Are you sure this isn't just some scam to get desperate people's money?

The service doesn't call the IRS for you - they use technology to navigate the IRS phone system and wait on hold in your place. When they reach an agent, they call you and connect you directly. You're the one actually talking to the IRS, they just handle the hold time. Yes, you could call yourself, but IRS hold times are currently running 2-3 hours on average, and they often disconnect you if their system is overloaded. I tried calling directly multiple times and couldn't even get into the queue. With Claimyr, I was able to go about my day and got a call when an agent was reached. It's basically like having someone wait in line for you.

Thanks for the insider perspective! What credentials should I be looking for when choosing someone? Is there a big difference between a CPA and an EA when it comes to regular tax prep?

For most individual returns, both CPAs and EAs are qualified, but there are differences. CPAs have broader accounting education and can handle financial planning beyond taxes. EAs specifically focus on taxation and representation before the IRS. Both have to pass rigorous exams and maintain continuing education. What's most important is finding someone with experience in your specific situation. Ask how many similar returns they've prepared and what their process is for staying current with tax law changes. Also inquire about their availability throughout the year - you want someone who's accessible if you have questions or receive IRS notices, not just during tax season.

Yeah I had a similar experience with Jackson Hewitt. Got a "free" $25 discount but ended up paying way more than my friend who used a local accountant. The preparer seemed to be following a script rather than actually looking at my specific situation.