Are you on the go but need the latest tax information at your fingertips? There’s an app for that. The latest version of the innovative IRS2Go app is now available.

Here’s what you can do with the redesigned IRS Smartphone app IRS2Go, version 4.0, available in English and Spanish:

• Check the status of your refund.  The new version of IRS2Go includes an easy-to-use refund status tracker so taxpayers can follow their tax return step-by-step throughout the IRS process. Just enter your Social Security number, filing status and your expected refund amount. You can start checking on the status of your refund 24 hours after the IRS confirms receipt of an e-filed return or four weeks after you mail a paper return. Since the IRS posts refund updates on a daily basis, there’s no need to check the status more than once each day.
• Find free tax preparation.  You may qualify for free tax help through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs. A new tool on IRS2Go will help you find a VITA location. Just enter your ZIP code and select a mileage range to see a listing of VITA/TCE sites near you. Select one of the sites and your Smartphone will show an address and map to help you navigate.
• Get tax records.  You can request a copy of your tax bill or a transcript of your tax return using IRS2Go. The post office will deliver to your address on record.
• Stay connected.  You can interact with the IRS by following the IRS on Twitter @IRSnews,@IRStaxpros and @IRSenEspanol. You can also watch IRS videos on YouTube, register for email updates or contact the IRS using the “Contact Us” feature.

For more information on IRS2Go and other IRS social media products, visit IRS.gov.

Many people hire a professional when it’s time to file their tax return. If you pay someone to prepare your federal income tax return, the IRS urges you to choose that person wisely. Even if you don’t prepare your own return, you’re still legally responsible for what is on it.

Here are ten tips to keep in mind when choosing a tax preparer:

1. Check the preparer’s qualifications.  All paid tax preparers are required to have a Preparer Tax Identification Number or PTIN. In addition to making sure they have a PTIN, ask the preparer if they belong to a professional organization and attend continuing education classes.
2. Check the preparer’s history.  Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the preparer has a questionable history. Check for disciplinary actions and for the status of their licenses. For certified public accountants, check with the state board of accountancy. For attorneys, check with the state bar association. For enrolled agents, check with the IRS Office of Enrollment.
3. Ask about service fees.  Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of your refund or those who say they can get larger refunds than others can. Always make sure any refund due is sent to you or deposited into your bank account. Taxpayers should not deposit their refund into a preparer’s bank account.
4. Ask to e-file your return.  Make sure your preparer offers IRS e-file. Any paid preparer who prepares and files more than 10 returns for clients generally must file the returns electronically. IRS has safely processed more than 1.2 billion e-filed tax returns.
5. Make sure the preparer is available.  Make sure you’ll be able to contact the tax preparer after you file your return – even after the April 15 due date. This may be helpful in the event questions come up about your tax return.
6. Provide records and receipts.  Good preparers will ask to see your records and receipts. They’ll ask you questions to determine your total income, deductions, tax credits and other items. Do not use a preparer who is willing to e-file your return using your last pay stub instead of your Form W-2. This is against IRS e-file rules.
7. Never sign a blank return.  Don’t use a tax preparer that asks you to sign a blank tax form.
8. Review your return before signing.  Before you sign your tax return, review it and ask questions if something is not clear. Make sure you’re comfortable with the accuracy of the return before you sign it.
9.  Ensure the preparer signs and includes their PTIN.  Paid preparers must sign returns and include their PTIN as required by law. The preparer must also give you a copy of the return.
10. Report abusive tax preparers to the IRS.  You can report abusive tax preparers and suspected tax fraud to the IRS. Use Form 14157, Complaint: Tax Return Preparer. If you suspect a return preparer filed or changed the return without your consent, you should also file Form 14157-A, Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit. You can get these forms at IRS.gov or by calling800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Additional IRS Resources:

• Tax Topic 254 – How to Choose a Tax Return Preparer
• Choosing a Tax Professional
• Verify the Status of an Enrolled Agent
• How to Make a Complaint About a Tax Return Preparer
• How to Report Suspected Tax Fraud Activity