Look for a tax professional who has consistent experience in tax, especially since there were more than 600 changes to the tax code last year alone. Ask your friends. Ask friends whose financial situations are similar to your own if they can recommend anyone to help you. Contact your state CPA, Legal or Enrolled Agent Organizations. Many state organizations have free referral services, and many of these organizations provide free assistance to low-income taxpayers who can't afford tax preparation help.
Some tax professionals have specialties in areas such as small business.
If you have specific concerns, make sure your tax professional is qualified to provide the special assistance you require by asking for references. If you have financial interests in states other than where you live, make sure your tax professional is familiar with those state laws. For example, if you live in one state and work in another, selecting a tax professional with interstate knowledge is important. Before you ask your tax professional to do anything, get a good idea of how he bills and the level of detail provided. Don't forget, the fee you pay your accountant this year could be a deduction on next year's taxes.