I'm a CPA: Here Are 5 Signs You Need Someone Like Me To Help File Your Taxes

Laura BogartThu, February 26, 2026 at 1:02 PM UTC

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To use a CPA or not to use a CPA? That’s the question many tax filers ask themselves as another tax season rolls around. Whether ’tis nobler to file independently using tax software or to hire a certified public accountant — well, you get the point. The question remains: When is it wisest to rely on a professional to help file your taxes?

To answer that question, MoneyLion spoke with Kevin Golden, a CPA and partner at James Moore & Co. He shared insight into when you may need someone like him in your corner.

“The real question is whether your current approach to taxes is simply helping you comply — or helping you build, protect and grow your wealth,” he said. “One pattern is consistent: People often don’t realize they’ve outgrown basic tax preparation until it costs them.”

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1. Your Financial Situation Has Become More Complex

If you have a single source of income and relatively straightforward finances — no major side hustles or developments — you’re likely fine filing on your own. But as your money matters grow more complicated, you may need outside help.

Golden says you may need more strategic guidance if any of the following apply to you:

You own a business or side venture.

You receive 1099 income.

You have multiple revenue streams.

You own rental property or significant investments.

Your income fluctuates from year to year.

“Each of these adds layers to your tax profile,” he said. “Different types of income are taxed differently. Deductions vary. Timing matters.”

2. Your Income Fluctuates Significantly

Big swings in income don’t always seem negative — especially in higher-earning years — but they can trigger unforeseen tax consequences.

“In higher-income years, you may find yourself facing a tax bill that feels disproportionate,” Golden said. “In lower-income years, you may miss opportunities to take advantage of planning strategies that could have smoothed the impact.”

Working with a CPA on strategic tax planning can help you manage estimated payments, cash flow and the timing of income recognition and deductions. If your tax bill comes as a yearly surprise, Golden said, you likely haven’t planned proactively — a clear sign you may benefit from professional guidance.

3. You’re Making Major Financial Decisions

Big moves — such as starting or selling a business or buying real estate or other large assets — often carry significant tax implications. Even if you’re not a titan of industry or a major real estate investor, it’s wise to consult a tax professional early.

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“One of the most common mistakes I see is seeking tax advice after the decision has already been made,” Golden said. “The most effective tax planning happens before the transaction — not after.”

If you're about to make a high-dollar or life-changing financial move, looping in a CPA ahead of time can help you avoid costly surprises.

4. You Want To Build Strategy — Not Just File a Return

For Golden, one of the biggest benefits of working with a tax professional is the opportunity to build a thoughtful strategy. It shifts you out of compliance mode and encourages you to think about your broader financial future.

“Filing a return once a year answers one question: What happened? Strategic tax planning answers a different question: What should happen next?” he said. “Ongoing conversations, whether quarterly or tied to major events, allow you to make informed decisions before year-end, not after.”

As Golden explains, tax filing focuses on compliance and meeting basic requirements. Tax planning, however, aims to:

Legally reduce your tax liability.

Avoid preventable surprises.

Improve cash flow.

Ensure your tax decisions align with long-term goals.

If you're thinking beyond this year’s refund and toward long-term wealth building, Golden said, that is often when a CPA becomes especially valuable.

5. You Don’t Fully Understand Your Tax Position

Ideally, you’d understand your tax bracket, how your income sources are taxed and which deductions benefit you most. You’d also know how to reduce next year’s tax liability.

But if you’re unsure about some of these details, it may be time to consult an advisor.

“If those answers feel unclear, you may not be receiving the level of advisory support you need,” Golden said. “A CPA’s role is not only to calculate your tax — it’s to help you understand it and position yourself more effectively going forward.”

The Bottom Line

To paraphrase another famous poet: The more complicated the money situation, the more likely you need a CPA. It may not be as catchy as “more money, more problems,” but needing a CPA isn’t a problem. It's often a signal that your financial life is evolving. If your finances are growing more complex, you need clarity on your tax position or you want help building a strategy, finding a CPA you trust may be a smart next step.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.

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Source: “AOL Money”