Tax preparers see drop in filings as deadline approaches
Tax preparers say if you’re getting a refund, waiting to file your taxes after the deadline isn’t really an issue. But if you owe money, doing so could bring a lot more problems.
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Tax season is winding down, but tax preparers say they're seeing fewer people filing compared to last year.
“This year is kind of like on and off," said Darwin Belotte, owner of Tax Care Solutions in Canarsie. "Last year, there was more traffic. And I don't know, like this year, people are waiting to file their taxes."
According to Belotte, the difference is very noticeable.
"Last year, I would say we would see like 10 to 15 people a day. This year it’s like most likely like three to five people," he said. "And then they’re still deciding whether they want to file the taxes or wait for next year."
Tax preparers say if you’re getting a refund, waiting to file your taxes after the deadline isn’t really an issue. But if you owe money, doing so could bring a lot more problems.
"If you are a business owner or self-employed and you’re filing your tax return and you’re expecting that you’re going to have a tax liability," said Belotte, "If you fail to file taxes during the period that the IRS gives you, there’s going to be penalties and interest from filing your tax late."
According to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, choosing the right person to prepare your taxes is critical. Residents can verify their preparers credentials on the department's website. The deadline to file is April 15.
