The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance encourages taxpayers to know their rights when hiring a tax preparer. New York State’s Consumer Bill of Rights Regarding Tax Preparers establishes standards to help protect the public from dishonest tax preparers.

What your New York tax preparer must do

In New York State, registered tax return preparers must post their New York State Tax Preparer Registration Certificate and price list.

They have to tell you up front whether they will represent you if your return is audited later.

You should be asked about your income, expenses, family and any other information or documents needed to accurately complete your return.

Preparers must allow you to review your completed return—including your bank account information—and ask questions before you sign it.

They have to give you a written statement of any interest and fees you will be charged if you choose a refund anticipation loan (refund advance) or a refund anticipation check (refund transfer) instead of having your refund deposited directly into your bank account.

They must sign your tax return and enter the preparer tax identification number (PTIN) and New York tax preparer identification number (NYTPRIN), if applicable.

Preparers must e-file your tax return and give you a year-round address and phone number you can use if you have questions or concerns about your return. They also have to provide you with a copy of your filed return.

If your tax preparer does not comply with the requirements, you can file a complaint online with the tax department’s Office of Professional Responsibility.

Tax return preparers must also:

Post Publication 135.1, Consumer Bill of Rights Regarding Tax Preparers (which is also available multiple languages, including Spanish); and

Provide you with a free copy of Publication 135, Consumer Bill of Rights Regarding Tax Preparers prior to any discussions.

Tax Department investigators conduct compliance checks during the personal income tax filing season to ensure that tax preparers are following the requirements. Tax preparers who fail to do so will be subject to fines and potential suspension of their tax preparer registration.

Verify your tax return preparer’s credentials

Certain tax return preparers must register annually with the stat tax department, and post copies of their current registration certificate.

To confirm your tax return preparer’s credentials, see www.tax.ny.gov/tp/reg/tpreg_list.htm.

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance states that it constantly works to improve the taxpayer experience so it is as simple, logical and equitable as possible. Learn more at www.tax.ny.gov.