There is an urban legend that if you use a tax preparer you are less likely to be audited...it's all the investment stuff that is a hassle, usually takes me several hours just to fill out the form from the accountant and gather up all the records he needs. My time is work 20k as is my peace of mind knowing that it's been properly done. I used to even have AMT issues which requires another set of calculations...no thanks. Ever since I got involved with stock options and then the stock purchase, sale, and subsequent investment of the proceeds, I have used an accountant.