I want to be sure my tax return is prepared correctly this. Do you have any tips for choosing a good one?

That is a very good question.  Tax time will be here before you know it. I have more than a few clients each year who are audited and when I review their returns I can see where the tax preparer made mistakes because he/she did not understand the application of the rules. The IRS has issued guidelines for choosing a tax return preparer.  You should (1) avoid one who claims he can get a larger refund than other preparers, (2) beware preparers who guarantee results or base fees on percentage of refund, (3) avoid firms where your work will be delegated to someone with very little experience, (4) avoid firms that export returns to foreign countries for preparation and (5) try to use a firm that is affiliated with a professional organization that requires continuing education and holds preparers to a code of ethics.  This is very good advice.  I would like to add that, with the complexity of the new tax laws, unless you have a very simple return, it is better to use a professional to be sure you get all the deductions and credits you deserve.