The Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals (MSATP) expresses deep concern over TurboTax’s recent advertising campaign that promotes the use of “live experts” as an alternative to working with licensed tax professionals. The commercial undermines the expertise, long-term client relationships, and comprehensive support that only qualified tax professionals can provide while failing to deliver the personalized care needed for complex tax situations.
As an organization representing thousands of certified public accountants (CPAs), tax preparers, and enrolled agents in Maryland, MSATP believes this ad not only misrepresents the complexity of tax preparation but also disregards the importance of the ongoing relationship between a client and their trusted tax advisor. While TurboTax advertises access to live experts, clients may only speak to that expert once, without the benefit of continuity or a deep understanding of their unique financial situation.
The Human Touch: Building Trust, Year-Round Support
TurboTax’s message that live assistance from experts can substitute the services of a seasoned tax professional ignores a fundamental truth: tax professionals build ongoing relationships with their clients. Our members gain a deep understanding of their clients’ financial situations, goals, and challenges, enabling them to offer tailored advice and proactive tax planning. This relationship goes beyond simply filing returns; it provides a long-term strategy for financial success.
While TurboTax may connect clients with a live expert, that interaction is often a one-time event. Clients may never speak with the same expert again, losing out on the continuity and personalized advice that is crucial for navigating complex tax issues year after year. In contrast, tax professionals invest in their client relationships over time, offering ongoing support, representation during audits, and the peace of mind that comes with having a dedicated advocate in your corner.
Local Expertise, Real Solutions
What TurboTax lacks is the local expertise that Maryland’s tax professionals bring to the table. With specific state tax codes, residency concerns, and complex local regulations, taxpayers often encounter issues that require professional insight unique to their area. Relying on a one-off interaction with an online expert cannot replace the hands-on, tailored guidance that local professionals provide.
Moreover, when you work with a tax professional, you are not left to navigate follow-up issues alone. Whether it’s dealing with an audit, amendments, or new tax implications, your tax professional remains accessible year-round to represent and guide you. TurboTax’s live expert service, by comparison, leaves many taxpayers to address these challenges on their own after that brief interaction.
Comprehensive Services Beyond Filing
MSATP members offer more than just tax preparation. They provide a broad range of services critical to the financial success of individuals and small businesses alike. From bookkeeping and payroll services to strategic financial advice, our members are committed to the long-term financial health of their clients, working with them throughout the year.
TurboTax’s live experts cannot provide this level of comprehensive, continuous support. They do not sit down with you to discuss your financial future, long-term strategies, or help you pivot when life changes. A quick consultation with a live expert simply does not compare to having a dedicated professional who knows your financial history and helps guide you through various stages of life.
At MSATP, we stand behind the value and expertise that tax professionals bring to their clients and communities. TurboTax’s latest commercial misleads consumers into thinking they can get the same level of service from a fleeting interaction with an online expert. The reality is that there is no substitute for the personalized, hands-on care provided by a qualified tax professional who is invested in their clients’ success.
For more information or to contact a licensed tax professional in your area, please visit our website at www.msatp.org.
About MSATP
The Maryland Society of Accounting and Tax Professionals (MSATP) is the voice of accounting and tax professionals in Maryland. Our mission is to support our members in building successful practices and providing unparalleled value to their clients through education, advocacy, and community building.