IRS Publication 5895 English & Spanish – Choosing the right person to prepare your federal tax return is one of the most important financial decisions you make each year. The IRS created Publication 5895 (en-sp), titled Who Do You Trust to Prepare Your Return?, to help taxpayers avoid scams and select qualified, trustworthy preparers.
This concise, bilingual (English and Spanish) flyer was revised in February 2025 and remains the IRS’s current consumer alert on tax preparer selection.
What Is IRS Publication 5895?
Publication 5895 is a quick-read, two-page consumer protection document that warns taxpayers about unscrupulous preparers and provides clear, actionable advice. It emphasizes one core message:
“Remember that not all tax preparers are equal.”
The publication is available as a free downloadable PDF in English and Spanish side-by-side (Catalog Number 94546H, Rev. 2-2025). You can download it directly here:
IRS Publication 5895 (English & Spanish) PDF
Key Warnings from the IRS (Direct from Publication 5895)
The IRS highlights several red flags that should immediately make you walk away:
- Preparers who promise larger-than-expected refunds
- Preparers who charge fees based on a percentage of your refund
- Preparers who do not have or will not provide a valid PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number)
- Anyone who asks you to sign a blank tax return
Important reminder from the IRS:
If you pay someone to prepare your return, they must sign it and include their PTIN. They have significant responsibility for accuracy — but you remain ultimately accountable for every item on the return.
What to Look For in a Reputable Tax Preparer?
According to Publication 5895 and Topic No. 254, choose a professional who:
- Signs the return and provides you with a complete copy
- Is available for questions after filing
- Reviews all your records and asks detailed questions about your income, deductions, and credits
- Has a track record in your community (check the Better Business Bureau)
Never sign a blank return, and always verify credentials before handing over your personal information.
Tax Preparer Credentials Explained
The IRS recognizes several levels of qualifications:
| Credential | Who Can Use It | Representation Rights Before the IRS |
|---|---|---|
| Attorney, CPA, Enrolled Agent | Licensed professionals | Full representation (audits, collections, appeals) |
| Annual Filing Season Program Participant | Unenrolled preparers who complete continuing education | Limited representation (only for returns they prepared) |
| PTIN only | All paid preparers | Must sign return; no automatic representation rights |
Only attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents can represent you in all IRS matters. Other preparers have limited rights.
Free Tax Preparation Options (No Cost, IRS-Backed)
The IRS strongly encourages eligible taxpayers to use free services:
- VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) – For low-to-moderate income, disabled, elderly, and limited-English-proficiency taxpayers
- TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) – Especially helpful for seniors
- IRS Free File – Free online software for qualifying incomes (usually under $79,000)
Scan the QR codes in Publication 5895 or visit:
- IRS.gov/vita – Find a VITA/TCE site near you
- IRS.gov/freefile – Free online filing
Additional Official Resources
- Topic No. 254 – How to Choose a Tax Return Preparer (updated February 2026) → Full details on credentials and representation rights
- Report suspected preparer misconduct through the IRS complaint process
- Publication 17 (Your Federal Income Tax) for general filing help
Final Advice from the IRS
Most tax professionals are honest and competent. However, a small number of “ghost preparers” and refund mills continue to prey on taxpayers. By following the straightforward guidance in IRS Publication 5895, you protect yourself, your refund, and your personal information.
Download the official bilingual guide today (English & Spanish):
Publication 5895 (Rev. February 2025) PDF
Need help finding a VITA site or verifying a preparer’s credentials? Visit IRS.gov/taxtopics/tc254 or call the IRS at 800-829-1040.
Protect your taxes. Choose wisely.
Last updated with current IRS data as of February 2026.