Taxes for the most part are simple and easy. You just plug in the numbers in the tax software and hit "continue" This is true for millions of taxpayers, just like it is untrue for millions and millions of other tax payers.

A qualified tax professional can input the same information into their professional tax software that the consumer does and because of past experience on how and where to input the information; can get a totally different outcome then you, the consumer.

If you have to file more then a 1040A, 1040EZ, and a Schedule B, doing your own taxes might be a good idea. However, it your tax returns becomes more complicated then the basics, then you may want to hire a Tax Professional. No, Tax Professionals are not cheap but neither is owing IRS.

If if your tax return is complicated and you feel that you completed it correctly but you still owe; a Tax Accountant can help you avoid the same mistake next year.

Tax Professionals breath, live, eat and drink tax law. They are on top of every new update that comes to them via the online service of choice. There have been several updates this year since February 2007. These updates may or may not change the outcome of a tax return but enables the tax professional to generate a correct tax return.

The difference between a Tax Preparer and a Tax Accountant is a Preparer will complete your tax return and run a system audit if they are using professional tax software. A Tax Accountant will complete the taxes, do an audit check and help the client understand how to lower their taxes for the coming years.

Taxes is law. Congress changes the tax laws every year. Its a Tax Professionals job to keep up with the laws for each year.