Taxation is an essential part of any civilised society. Taxes help the authorities maintain public utilities and deliver services to the citizens. Therefore, you have a civil and legal duty to pay taxes. Tax accountants can help you perform this duty without any hindrances.

This piece discusses scenarios when you require a tax accountant.

Normal business reporting

Tax payments and tax returns are some of the most common types of reports your firm must generate. These reports are a mandatory requirement for the taxation authorities. In addition, these reports are essential for making major business decisions such as mergers and expansion. Prompt preparation of tax reports is the role of a tax accountant. 

Your firm also requires a tax database. This database comprises numerous records from the past as well as projections of the future. This database helps you track and estimate returns and is crucial during an audit. All the quarterly and annual tax reports are in this database, and the tax accountant is responsible for its creation, improvement, and maintenance. 

Major life events

Some events in your life significantly change your tax obligations. For example, do you want to file taxes jointly or separately after marriage? A tax accountant directs you towards the option that has a lower tax bill. Other significant events that require a tax accountant include divorce, sale or purchase of a home, adopting or having a child and the sale of investments.

Your tax accountant also advises you on matters such as inheritance and its tax implications. For example, the law does not consider your estate an income. However, you must pay tax for the earnings obtained from the inherited assets. The accountant also tells you which sources are tax-free in such a case. 

Resolve tax-related issues

Taxation laws dictate the conduct of businesses and individuals when dealing with the taxation authorities. Accurately filed returns and honest reporting help your firm avoid legal problems. Still, some issues might arise requiring a tax accountant. For example, the taxation authority might audit your firm, and the accountant can assist you in ensuring compliance. 

In addition, the accountant helps you avoid taxes that inflate your bill. Tax avoidance is a legal process, but the savings might be significant. At the same time, the tax accountant ensures your firm discloses information to tax authorities as required by the law. Therefore, the accountant helps prevent and resolve accusations of tax evasion. 

Tax accountants are essential in regular business reporting, during significant life events, and resolving tax-related issues.