How Much Does A Tax Attorney Cost?

As much as you’d want to do everything on your own, there are certain responsibilities in life which are best done with professionals. These people are trained and experienced in handling a specific function which means that they’re the best people to ask help from. Their professional services might come with a price but hiring them is a cost-effective solution. These are the reasons why you should consider working with a tax attorney. You might have an idea of how your basic taxes are computed, but when it comes to the nitty-gritty, their legal services can go a long way. This is especially true when you’re anticipating to have a taxable estate, opening a new business, engaging in international commerce or bringing up a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Services.

Although tax attorneys are indeed very helpful, you might be one of those people who are still hesitant in hiring one because you’re scared of the costs involved. You have this notion that the price you’ll pay for their legal services equate to the long list of benefits these tax attorneys can bring to your life. To finally clear any misconception you have in mind, take time to read the information below as this can educate you on the cost of hiring a tax attorney:

1.      The typical costs involved: Depending on the tax attorney you hire, you may be charged with an hourly rate or flat fee for their legal services. As the name suggests, a tax attorney who charges an hourly rate will require payment based on the number of hours he has worked with you. Flat fees, on the other hand, are one-time charges which don’t count the number of hours worked.

●       Usually, a tax attorney who charges by the hour requires around $200-$400 for their services. Aside from this payment, you should also make a prepayment known as the retainer’s fee. Once the tax attorney completed his or her services, the hourly fee is deducted from the retainer’s fee.

●       Some legal issues can be addressed within a few hours. When you’re having problems with the payment options with IRS, a tax attorney can offer a compromise. Since solutions are given to you in one sitting, expect that a tax attorney will charge higher than the usual hourly rate.

●       Generally, a retainer’s fee for simple legal disputes can start from $2,000. Complex or prolonged cases can go as much as $15,000 and even higher due to several other factors. These costs can skyrocket once your case goes to trial.

2.      The additional costs you can expect: Aside from the professional services of the tax attorney, expect that you will still pay for other charges. Knowing what these charges will allow you to prepare an appropriate budget.

●       When you’re hiring a tax attorney for the first time, you need to scout for options. Scheduling an appointment can be the final step to determine who to hire. Some tax attorneys will happily give you free consultation, while others will do it for a fee. For the latter, their consultation fee is the same as their hourly rate.

●       The legal fees you’ll pay for a tax attorney usually includes the filing fees and other court costs. This can also cover payment for other expenses involved in the process namely paralegal time and payment of messengers. But keep in mind that tax attorneys aren’t charging the same. You might be required to pay more on top of these legal fees.

●       Regardless of the payment structure a tax attorney is following, it’s best if you get a written statement detailing the “other” cost. This document will give you a complete rundown of the total amount you’ll have to pay to your tax attorney.

3.      The discounts you can qualify for: If you’re a low-income taxpayer who needs legal services but can’t afford to pay for one, don’t fret. There are certain services from the government which can qualify you for discounts.

●       Inquire from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic the requirements for an individual to utilize free or low-cost legal services from a tax attorney. This organization can drastically help your legal battles without requiring for you to break the bank.

●       Additionally, reach out to other organizations in your area such as the Legal Aid office and the American Bar Association. These organizations can become your bridge so you can find a tax attorney in your state.

Benefits Outweigh Costs

With regards to matters involving the law, DIY solutions don’t always bring positive results. On the contrary, solving problems on your own can even do more harm than good as this can result in more legal responsibilities. Hiring tax attorneys may involve costs, but with the convenience and benefits they can give you, the money you’ll pay will be worth it. Just make sure that you’re working with a reputable, trustworthy and professional tax attorney.

Like Us On Facebook