Nowadays, it isn't uncommon at all for people to do their own taxes online. There are even software programs that allow you to do so. However, even though this might seem like the perfect option for filing your taxes, for many people it isn't. These are a few signs that you should hire a professional instead of doing your own taxes.

1. You Aren't a "Numbers Type of Person"

Some people are better with numbers than others. If you are the type of person who prefers to read and write than to do complicated math problems, doing your own taxes probably isn't the best idea for you. Even with a software program, there is still a lot of math and a lot of numbers involved.

2. Your Life Has Changed Significantly in the Past Year

Have you gone through a major life change in the past year? For example, have you purchased a home, started a business, gotten married, gotten divorced, become a widow, or had a child? If so, your tax situation has probably changed a lot, and trying to handle your taxes yourself could result in an error if you aren't careful. A tax preparation professional can talk to you about these changes and can ensure that your taxes are done properly after a major life change.

3. You Have a Complicated Return

Some returns are much more complicated than others. If you are employed and receive a regular paycheck that has already had taxes and such taken out, and if you rent a living space and are single, then your tax situation is probably pretty simple. However, if your tax return is going to be a bit more complicated—such as if you are a business owner and a home owner and want to itemize your return so that you can get credit for your mortgage and your business expenses—then it might be a job that is better left to a professional. The more complicated the return, the more chance there is of an error occurring. It's often better to have a tax preparation professional by your side to help you avoid these errors.

In today's day and age, more and more people are doing their own taxes. However, this does not mean that buying a software program and attempting to do your taxes yourself is the right idea for you. If any of these three things apply to you and your tax situation, it might be a better idea to work with a pro. Contact a representative from a company like Bauer & Associates LTD for tax preparation services and breathe a sigh of relief.