You should always know whats going on with your tax return. Be cautious and fire your tax preparer if: They base their fee off your return They don't give you copies of your return and your documentation back They don't have a valid PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number); they're given by the IRS and yes, they do expire! They refuse to give direct answers to your questions. If it doesn't look right, ask questions. Remember, the tax preparer works for you and it's YO