Help
Frequently asked questions
Is TaxShifterPro free?
Creating a taxpayer account, browsing the professional directory, using Pro'Bot, the AI prep checklist, the Tax Calculator Studio, refund guidance and the community are free. Services from independent tax professionals cost money at the rates each professional sets. Paid booking and checkout are not live yet, so no one can be charged through TaxShifterPro today.
Is TaxShifterPro the IRS or a tax preparer?
No. TaxShifterPro is a technology and matching platform. It is not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency, and it does not itself prepare returns. Professional services are provided by independent professionals who are responsible for their own work and qualifications.
What's the difference between a CPA, an Enrolled Agent and a PTIN preparer?
A CPA is licensed by a state board of accountancy. An Enrolled Agent (EA) is authorized by the IRS and may represent taxpayers on any tax matter. A tax attorney is licensed by a state bar. Preparers with only a PTIN may prepare returns for pay; Annual Filing Season Program record holders have limited representation rights, and other PTIN-only preparers generally cannot represent you before the IRS. Check the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers for details.
What does "verified" mean?
An admin reviewed the credentials and documents the professional submitted in their application and approved it. Verification is a point-in-time review, not a guarantee of quality, current licensure or outcome. You should confirm credentials with the issuing authority before hiring anyone.
How does matching work?
Today, you search and filter the directory yourself by specialty, language, location and rate. Automatic matching, booking and messaging are not built yet.
Does the AI file my return?
No. Pro'Bot and the prep checklist give educational information only. They do not prepare, sign or file returns, cannot see IRS records, and are not CPAs, EAs or attorneys.
Is the calculator's result my real refund?
No. The Tax Calculator Studio gives a simplified federal estimate that excludes credits and many situations. Your actual refund or balance due depends on your filed return and IRS processing.
How do I check my official refund status?
Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool at irs.gov/refunds. TaxShifterPro has no IRS integration and cannot see your refund status.
How is my information protected?
Data is stored in our cloud database with row-level access rules so you only see your own private records. Pro'Bot chat history is saved only if you opt in, and SSN/EIN/account-number patterns are removed before text is sent to the AI service. See the draft Privacy Policy for details.
Can I upload my tax documents?
Not yet for taxpayers. Only professional applicants can upload credential documents, which are stored privately and visible only to them and admins. Client document sharing with consent is planned.
What is the cancellation policy?
Booking isn't live yet, so there's nothing to cancel. When booking launches, each professional's cancellation terms will be shown before you agree to a service.
How do I apply as a professional?
Sign in and open the professional application. Save a draft, add credentials and documents, then submit. An admin reviews it and may approve, reject or request more information.
Can I pay through TaxShifterPro?
Not yet. Payments are not live. A marketplace fee for professionals has been proposed but is not active or final.
How do I report a professional or a scam?
Use the Support page and choose "Report a professional" or "Scam". You can also report community posts directly. For suspected IRS impersonation, report to the IRS and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
Is TaxLive or video meeting available?
No. TaxLive broadcasts and private TaxMeet video sessions are on the roadmap and not built yet.