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Home / Tax Accountant

Tax accountants and tax advisors

Find a tax accountant who plans ahead

A tax preparer fills in last year's return. A tax accountant or tax advisor helps you plan, so the next one costs less, and steps in when the IRS or HMRC comes asking. If your taxes are more than simple, this is the person you want.

Get matched with a tax accountant

When you need a tax accountant

  • You own a business or have significant self-employment income
  • You sold property, a business or investments and face capital gains tax
  • You have income in more than one country, or you are moving abroad
  • You are planning for retirement or passing on wealth
  • You have stock options, RSUs or crypto
  • You received a letter, audit or inquiry from the IRS, your state or HMRC
  • You have fallen behind on filings or payments and need to catch up

What tax planning means

Tax planning is arranging your affairs legally so you pay the right tax and no more. That can mean timing income and expenses, choosing the right business structure, making the most of retirement accounts and allowances, claiming credits you qualify for, or structuring a sale. It is done during the year, before the deadlines, which is why it pays to talk to a tax accountant early rather than in April or January.

Tax evasion, hiding income or making false claims, is illegal. A reputable tax accountant will never suggest it.

International and expat tax

US citizens are taxed on their worldwide income wherever they live, so Americans abroad usually still file a US return and may need to report foreign bank accounts (FBAR) and assets. People moving to or from the UK need to understand residence rules. An international tax accountant can help you avoid double taxation using tax treaties and foreign tax credits.

How tax accountants charge

Tax planning and advice are usually charged by the hour or as a fixed project fee, while ongoing support may be a monthly or annual retainer. Handling an IRS or HMRC inquiry is often priced separately. Ask for a written estimate and what is included.

How to choose a tax accountant

  1. Match the specialism

    Business tax, personal wealth, international and crypto tax all need different expertise. Ask about clients like you.

  2. Check credentials

    In the USA, look for a CPA or enrolled agent with representation rights. In the UK, look for a chartered tax adviser (CIOT) or a chartered accountant. Every listing shows the professional body.

  3. Proactive approach

    Ask how often they will review your situation during the year, not just at filing time.

Tell us what you need

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Common questions

A tax preparer focuses on completing returns. A tax accountant or tax advisor also plans ahead, advises on decisions with tax consequences, and represents you if the tax authority has questions.
If your taxes are more than simple, often yes. Planning advice can save far more than the fee, and professional help with an audit or inquiry can prevent penalties.
Yes. CPAs and enrolled agents can represent you before the IRS, and chartered accountants and tax advisers regularly deal with HMRC on their clients' behalf.
If you are a US citizen abroad, or you have income or assets in more than one country, a specialist is strongly advised, because the reporting rules and treaty relief are complex.
Before a big decision, such as selling property or a business, starting a company, moving abroad or exercising stock options, and ideally a few months before the end of your tax year.

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