Who pays my taxes if the preparer makes an error?
If your preparer makes an error, you must pay any back taxes owed. They are still your taxes. You can sometimes make payment arrangements with the IRS or negotiate a settlement. Who pays my penalties and interest?The paid preparer is responsible for any penalties and interest incurred because s/he made a mistake. Usually a paid preparer will provide you with an amended tax return and get you to sign a statement saying you have received it. On that date, the paid preparer’s responsibility for penalties and interest ends. If you choose not to file the amendment for 5 years, you are responsible for the penalties and interest from the date you received the amendment forward. Choose a paid tax preparer carefully. Don’t let friends or relatives file your taxes for you.
