Compare
Compare by what your situation actually needs
Not every IRS issue needs a paid professional — here's how the main options typically differ.
How this table is built.
- What kind of situation it typically fits
- Whether it typically costs anything
- How much of the work you handle yourself
- When it's typically the right call
| Type of help | What it typically fits | Typical cost | When it's the right call |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-help (read the notice, respond yourself) | A simple notice with a clear explanation and no real dispute | Free | You understand the notice and agree with it, or the fix is straightforward |
| Free IRS resource (Taxpayer Advocate Service or LITC) | Genuine hardship, an unresolved problem, or your income meets LITC eligibility guidelines | Free, or low cost for LITC | Normal IRS channels haven't fixed the problem, or cost is a real barrier |
| Paid tax professional (CPA, enrolled agent, attorney) | A genuine dispute, an audit, or a complex situation involving real dollars | Varies by professional and complexity | The situation is contested, complex, or you want direct representation |
This table describes general patterns, not a recommendation for any specific situation — the right option depends on the details of your case, and more than one type of help can apply at once.
Next step
Where to look at each option
How we make money: some links here are partner or affiliate links and we may be paid a fee at no cost to you. It never changes what we write or how options are ordered — see our disclosure and methodology.
Partner
Tax Filing Software
For straightforward returns, guided software that walks you through filing correctly the first time.
See tax software →