DIY Tax Filing vs. Hiring a CPA

Every small business owner faces this decision. The right answer depends on the complexity of your situation, how much your time is worth, and your comfort with tax law.

When DIY Makes Sense

Tax software has gotten good enough that straightforward returns — sole proprietorships with simple income and expenses — can be handled by most people with basic financial literacy. A single-member LLC with no employees, limited investment income, and clean books can be handled with TurboTax Self-Employed.

When to Hire a CPA

You have employees. Payroll taxes add complexity a CPA handles correctly.

You have an S-corp or multi-member LLC. These require separate return filings most DIY filers struggle with.

Your income is growing significantly. Tax planning opportunities become more valuable as income rises.

You had a major business event. Selling a business, adding a partner, or buying property creates complex tax situations.