Speaking of tax preparers...
The week before last I phoned the guy I've been using, Dennis, to ask a couple questions that I could not finish my end of things without. He answered them, then told me to call or email for an appointment when I had everything ready. Tuesday of last week I did so and left a message. No word from him. Last Monday I emailed, suggested that I just drop the papers off at his office and when would someone be there. Still no word. By yesterday I figured he either was deliberately avoiding me or was deeply buried -- neither was good news.
Yesterday I looked for someone else and found a preparer with EXCELLENT reviews. He actually answered the phone and said he could do my return quite soon. He's more expensive and it's further to drive, but I'd like a second opinion on ways to reduce my taxes. I have an appointment with him tomorrow.