• Tax Preparation: $220-$323 for a simple Form 1040 (with or without itemized deductions), $457-$515 for a Form 1040 with Schedule C for self-employed individuals, and $750-$5,000+ for complex business returns (e.g., S-Corps, multi-member LLCs). – Grok 

The main difference between an accountant and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) lies in licensing, qualifications, and scope of practice:

• Accountant: An accountant is a broad term for anyone who manages financial records, prepares financial statements, or handles tasks like bookkeeping, budgeting, or tax preparation. They typically hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field but may not have advanced certifications. Accountants can work in various roles (e.g., bookkeeper, staff accountant) without specific licensure, and their services are often limited to non-regulated tasks unless supervised by a CPA. – Grok 

• CPAs can identify deductions, credits, and strategies (e.g., depreciation, retirement plans) that non-CPAs might miss, potentially offsetting their fees. For instance, a CPA might save a small business thousands by optimizing tax structures, far exceeding the $1,500-$6,500 annual cost for typical services.

• Only CPAs (and attorneys or enrolled agents) can represent you before the IRS in case of an audit. If you anticipate tax disputes or need advocacy, a CPA’s expertise is critical. – Grok