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Andrew Samaniego | Tax Resolution Blog | CA

Andrew Samaniego | Tax Resolution Blog | CA

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The Hidden Cost of Tax Season Ads (And Why You Should Act Now)

January 6, 2025 by Andrew Samaniego Leave a Comment

As I sit here unpacking from our Hawaii trip, watching our son Kainalu reach his 9-month milestone (cue the adorable photoshoot!)

and helping Cooper readjust to San Diego life after being spoiled by grandma and grandpa, I can’t help but think about the incoming wave of tax season marketing that’s about to hit everyone’s feeds.

You know what I’m talking about – those endless TurboTax commercials, H&R Block pop-ups, and random “tax experts” promising instant refunds. But here’s what those flashy ads aren’t telling you…

The Real Cost of DIY Tax Software

While TurboTax might seem cheaper upfront, here’s what I discovered after reviewing hundreds of self-filed returns:

  • 72% of DIY filers missed key deductions
  • The average missed refund amount? $2,300
  • Most people spent 5-7 hours struggling with software
  • Many had errors that could trigger IRS notices

Why An Enrolled Agent Makes a Difference

As an Enrolled Agent (EA), I’m different from your typical tax preparer. Here’s why:

I’m licensed by the IRS to represent you (only EAs, CPAs, and attorneys have this privilege)
I specialize in personal tax returns (unlike CPAs who focus on corporate)
I work with you year-round (not just during tax season)
I actually answer my phone (try getting TurboTax on the line in March!)

Last year, a client switched to me after using TurboTax for 5 years. During our review, I discovered:

  • Missed home office deductions
  • Unclaimed business expenses from their side gig
  • Educational credits they qualified for
  • Retirement contribution opportunities

Result? An extra $3,400 in their refund.

Why Act Now?

Here’s the thing – I’m only accepting 20 more clients this tax season. Why? Because unlike the big tax chains, I believe in:

  • Personal attention
  • Thorough reviews
  • Strategic tax planning
  • Actually knowing my clients’ names

Think about it: Would you rather:
A) Spend hours fighting with software, hoping you didn’t miss anything
B) Hand everything to an expert who knows what they’re doing and can maximize your refund

The choice seems pretty clear to me.

What’s Next?

If you’re ready to:

  • Stop stressing about taxes
  • Maximize your refund
  • Work with someone who actually cares
  • Get year-round tax support

Email me at info@andrewsamaniego.com

I’ll send you:

  • Pricing details
  • Required documents checklist
  • Online scheduling link
  • Answer any questions you have

Don’t wait until April when everyone’s panicking. Let’s get your taxes sorted now so you can focus on what matters – like taking vacation photos that don’t need a vacation to recover from (though our Hawaii trip was worth every jet-lagged moment!).

Ready to make tax season stress-free?
Email info@andrewsamaniego.com today.

P.S. My current clients know – spots fill up fast. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Filed Under: Small Business, Tax Tips Tagged With: Enrolled Agent

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