To avoid surprises, discuss ahead of time how you will be billed (such as by the hour or type of return). You can save time -- and money -- by being prepared.
"New clients should bring their prior-year tax return. It is information that we need," said Robert Moore Jr., a certified public accountant in Suffolk, Va.
When meeting with your tax preparer, also bring original tax documents and forms, such as W-2s and 1099s, Moore advises. If you sold securities or other property, know the dates you bought and sold them and for how much.
If you bought, sold or refinanced a property, bring the closing statement. If you have depreciable property, have the depreciation schedule available. And be on time for your meeting -- your preparer is probably quite busy this time of year.