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Personal Income Taxes Preparation and filing in Canada

Personal Income Tax Preparation and Filing in Canada: When To Hire An Accountant?

The annual income tax season is one of the most stressful times for most taxpayers in Canada. It’s when you need to decide whether you should prepare and file your taxes on your own or hire a professional personal tax accountant to handle the task for you. Before you make a decision in this regard, you need to consider the degree of complexity (or simplicity) of your own tax situation. 

In this blog, we will discuss a few situations in which it’s a good idea to hire a professional accountant for personal income tax preparation and filing in Canada. We will also tell you some important questions you should ask your personal income tax accountant. So, let’s get started. 

Can You Do Your Own Tax Returns?

Many first-time taxpayers wonder whether or not they can do their own tax returns. Well, if your tax situation is simple – A single income, a single employer, and no major transactions – You may consider doing your personal taxes on your own. Hiring a professional tax preparer or accountant may seem unnecessary in such cases. 

However, if your tax situation is complicated and you are not up-to-date on Canadian tax laws and regulations, then it’s better to avoid doing it yourself. Instead, consider hiring a qualified tax accountant who is well-aware of the changes to the tax system. He can maximize your deductions and help you get a larger tax return.

When Should You Hire A Personal Income Tax Accountant

Here are the situations when you should hire a professional income tax accountant for preparing and filing your income tax returns:

1. Self-employed Individuals

Self-employed individuals often find it difficult to figure out the deductions that can be claimed. Also, separating personal expenses from work can be overwhelming. Having a professional accountant on your side can make it easy for your to file your returns. 

2. Changes in Your Family Structure 

Major life changes such as a marriage or separation can make a huge impact on your personal tax return. Allowing a professional tax preparer to prepare and file the tax return for you can make things easier. 

3. You Purchased or Sold A Property

Did you purchase or sell a property in Canada this year? A personal tax accountant can minimize the capital gains on your property sales. 

4. You Are Planning For The Future

If you are planning for the future and looking for someone who can help you manage your money, then you should consider consulting a qualified personal income tax accountant. He can provide you with the right advice.

Questions To Ask Your Personal Income Tax Accountant

Before you decide to hire an accountant for your personal income tax preparation and filing in Canada, here are a few questions you should ask:

  • How many years of experience do you have?
  • What are your rates and how do you charge?
  • Are you available at any time of the year?
  • Do you have expertise in a particular area of taxation?

Bottom Line

So, it definitely makes sense to hire a professional personal income tax accountant when your personal situation is complicated. Please read our other blogs for more information.