How Much Does It Cost to Have Someone Do Your Taxes?

If you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, “How much does it cost to have someone do your taxes?” you’re not alone-especially as tax season approaches and the paperwork starts piling up. The cost of hiring a tax preparer or CPA to file your tax return can range widely, depending on factors like the complexity of your tax situation, where you live, and the credentials of the person you hire. For a simple tax return, you might pay as little as $100 to $250, but if you have multiple income sources, own a business, or need to file extra forms, the price can easily climb to $500, $1,000, or more. Tax preparation fees can be charged as a flat rate, hourly rate, or per form, and the average cost for professional tax preparation in 2025 hovers around $220 to $400 for most individuals, with small business owners and those with complex finances paying even more. Knowing what goes into these costs-and how to choose the right tax professional-can help you budget smartly and avoid surprises when the bill arrives.

What Factors Influence Tax Preparation Costs?

Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay for professional tax preparation:

• Complexity of Your Return: The more forms, schedules, and sources of income you have, the higher the fee. Simple W-2 returns are cheaper than returns with itemized deductions, rental income, or business ownership.
• Type of Tax Professional: CPAs and tax attorneys charge more than enrolled agents or seasonal preparers. CPAs often bring more expertise, especially for complex returns.
• Location: Tax preparation costs are higher in big cities and certain regions. For example, a basic return in Los Angeles or New York will cost more than in a small Midwestern town.
• Billing Method: Some preparers charge a flat fee per return, while others bill by the hour (often $100–$400 per hour) or by each form required.
• Organization: If your documents are a mess, expect to pay more for a pro to sort them out. Organized clients save on hourly fees.
• Urgency: Need your taxes done in a hurry? Expedited or last-minute service can add a premium to your bill.

Typical Price Ranges for Tax Preparation

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2025:

• Hourly rates: $100–$400+ per hour, depending on the preparer’s experience and your return’s complexity.
• Flat fees: Often used for simple returns; more complex cases may see a combination of flat and per-form charges.
• Per-form fees: Each additional schedule (like rental income, capital gains, or business income) can add $100–$200+ to your bill.

Is Hiring a Tax Professional Worth It?

While the cost of hiring someone to do your taxes may seem steep, there are real benefits:

• Expertise: Tax pros know the latest laws and can help you maximize deductions and credits you might miss on your own5.
• Accuracy: Fewer mistakes mean less risk of IRS penalties or audits.
• Time Savings: No more wrestling with confusing forms or tax software.
• Audit Support: If you’re audited, a CPA or enrolled agent can represent you and help resolve issues.

For straightforward returns, using tax software may be cheaper. But for business owners, freelancers, or anyone with complex finances, hiring a professional can pay for itself in tax savings and peace of mind.

How to Save on Tax Preparation Fees?

• Get organized: Bring sorted, complete documents to your preparer.
• Ask about pricing: Get a quote upfront and clarify how you’ll be billed.
• Choose the right pro: Match your needs to the preparer’s expertise-don’t pay CPA rates for a simple return.
• Consider virtual services: Some online tax pros offer lower rates than in-person firms.

FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to have a CPA do your taxes?
A: For a basic return, expect to pay $220–$400; complex returns and business filings can cost $700–$2,000 or more.

Q: Do tax preparers charge by the hour or by the form?
A: Both! Some charge a flat fee per return, others bill hourly ($100–$400+), and some add fees for each extra form or schedule.