Most Americans rank doing their taxes somewhere between getting a root canal sans Novocain and a birthday party for sleep-deprived four year olds! This is why many are looking to their tax preparers to save them some much needed money. However, even the best tax preparer still needs your help. Only you know the ins and outs of your life, thus open communication is key to saving money on your taxes.

Tax expert and author of THE TAX LADY’S GUIDE TO BEATING THE IRS: And Saving Big Bucks on Your Taxes, Roni Deutch, is on a mission to save Americans from the greedy hands of Uncle Sam.  Below Roni offers the top 5 things you must tell your tax preparer to maximize your returns this tax season:

Family Changes

If you got married, divorced, had a child, had a kid start daycare, had a kid start college, or took in a relative, your tax preparer needs to know! Few things impact your taxes more than a change in your family.

Home Changes

In these unstable times, taxpayers’ housing situations change often. This can impact the deductions you are allowed to claim, and could cost you thousands in credits if you forget to bring it up.

Job Changes

If you got a new job, lost a job, looked for a new job, or were on the receiving end of a pay cut, your tax preparer needs to know. Between deductions for job hunting expenses, paying for medical insurance out of pocket, reduced income, and new rules for unemployment benefits, you could save a ton of money on your taxes.

Major Purchases

Tell your tax preparer of any major purchases you’ve made this year. Any large purchase may impact your tax bill, so even if you don’t think it will matter, tell your tax preparer anyway. Better safe than sorry.

Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is becoming commonplace with today’s dismal economic climate. Each bankruptcy chapter filings require you to file your taxes differently, and have different rules for how deductions, credits and exemptions are claimed. If a bankruptcy filing is part of your financial future, you should seek out a tax preparer with extensive experience with bankruptcy.