Another preparer says I'd get a bigger refund. Who's right?
Short answer
Ask the other preparer to show you exactly which deductions create the difference. A bigger refund is only better if every number holds up, and an aggressive return can turn a refund into back taxes, penalties and interest later.
Otavio Mayole, Co-founder, DeCypher FinancialsUpdated
We welcome second opinions. If another preparer found something real that we missed, we'll add it and thank you for bringing it to us.
How to compare two returns:
- Line them up side by side and find the lines that differ.
- Ask what supports each extra deduction: a mileage log, square footage, receipts, a contract.
- Check the rules behind it. Some deductions have hard requirements, like using a car more than 50% for business to take the largest first-year write-off.
- Ask who stands behind it. If the IRS asks questions, who answers them, and are they allowed to represent you?
A real example from our team: a second preparer turned an $11,000 balance due into an $800 refund. The difference came from claiming a full first-year car write-off at 40% business use, which doesn't meet the rule, and a home office share more than three times what the documents supported.
Remember that you sign your return. If a deduction is disallowed, the tax, penalties and interest are yours.
These are not guarantees. Every creator's situation is different.