Over One-Third of Americans Rely on Tax Preparers, Survey Shows

A Shift in Tax Filing: Why Americans Are Turning to Professionals

Recent findings from a survey commissioned by TaxSlayer Pro and conducted by Talker Research illustrate a notable trend: more than one-third of Americans, specifically 37%, are opting for professional help when it comes to filing their taxes. This behavior emerges as a response to various life changes and the complexities associated with financial management.

Milestones Driving Change

The survey, which included responses from 2,000 U.S. taxpayers, highlights that significant life events greatly influence the decision to transition from self-filing to seeking assistance from tax specialists. Events such as marriage, home purchases, and embarking on investments were cited as catalysts for this change. For instance, 21% of respondents indicated that marriage prompted them to seek professional tax help, while 15% attributed their decision to buying a home, and 23% to starting investment practices.

Richard Marshall, Director of Sales at TaxSlayer Pro, explained how these milestones complicate tax situations. "When people experience such life changes, the associated tax implications can become overwhelming without expert advice," he noted, emphasizing the importance of informed guidance during tax season.

Trust in Professional Assistance

The survey also revealed that many Americans have confidence in professional tax preparers. About 69% of respondents stated they believe professionals possess superior knowledge, while 41% cited the goal of maximizing their refunds as a significant reason for hiring help. This confidence is evident, as a staggering 96% of those who work with tax preparers reported feeling more secure about their filing process.

Moreover, self-employed individuals find invaluable support through professional tax services. Nearly half (48%) of self-employed respondents reported consulting tax preparers for business-related advice, with respondents from the Midwest particularly inclined to seek such help. This demographic often faces unique challenges during tax season, making guidance even more critical.

Future Trends: Generational Shifts

Interestingly, while 63% of respondents currently handle their own tax filings, a notable 53% expressed willingness to hire a professional in the next two years. This potential shift is primarily due to their recognition of increasingly complicated tax situations (55%), changing tax laws (27%), and a lack of time or energy to file (25%).

Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, display an openness to utilizing professional services. More than other age groups, Gen Z respondents indicated they would consider hiring a tax preparer if they acquired a second job or desired to explore new income avenues. In fact, a striking 34% of Gen Z participants reported already having multiple income sources, suggesting their tax situations may soon require professional assistance.

The Role of TaxSlayer Pro

TaxSlayer Pro has positioned itself as a trusted resource for over 20,000 professional tax preparers across the country. Its commitment to simplifying the tax filing experience for Americans is bolstered by offering easy-to-use technology and timely customer support. As a long-established IRS e-file provider since 1989, the platform ensures that tax professionals can provide patients with effective guidance and prompt responses.

Conclusion

The survey findings underline a critical transition in how Americans approach tax preparation. As life circumstances evolve, so do the preferences and needs of taxpayers. Engaging professional help is becoming increasingly common as individuals navigate the complexities of modern finance, reflecting a broader trend of seeking expertise in personal financial management. Whether through significant life events or fear of costly mistakes, turning to tax professionals like those at TaxSlayer Pro helps ensure peace of mind during tax season and beyond.