08 October 2021
A Tax Return Preparer or a TRP is a professional who is trained by the Income Tax Department in order to assist taxpayers concerning their returns filing by offering services in the comfort of their own home. However, for cases where a tax audit is compulsory, TRPs shall not be able to file tax returns. Any individual who holds a graduate degree from a recognised Indian Univerisity in the fields of Business Administration or Management or Commerce or Economics or Law or Mathematics or Statistics can become an Income Tax Return Preparer. In addition to the educational qualification, the person will also have to fulfil certain training and certification to become an Income Tax Return Preparer. The following are the duties that should be executed by a Tax Return Preparer.
The return of a taxpayer must be prepared by keeping due diligence in mind. The return of a taxpayer that has been prepared must contain the signature of the concerned TRP. A TRP must submit the returns to the relevant Assessing Officer or a concerned agency that has been verified by the Resource Centre. TRPs should acquire an acknowledgement copy as it serves as a proof of submission of the return. A TRP has the responsibility to maintain a record of specific details concerning all the returns prepared by them. A statement of particulars must be submitted to the Resource Centre on or before the 7th of every month.