Tax or accounting problem—
who do you actually need?

A qualified tax preparer may be enough. Paid federal return preparers must have a valid PTIN; credentials and representation rights vary.

Look for bookkeeping/accounting help that fits the complexity of the business and can work with your records year-round.

Consider a professional with the representation rights your issue needs. The IRS says enrolled agents, CPAs and attorneys have unlimited representation rights before the IRS.

When the issue is primarily legal, a tax attorney may be the appropriate lane. This guide does not provide tax or legal advice.