It seems there's one thing Democratic and Republican senators might agree on these days: forcing out-of-state companies to collect sales tax for online purchases. A bill has been proposed, but until it passes, here's what you can do now to pocket the cash that might otherwise go to the taxman.

You just might pay less in taxes next year – but no thanks to the politicians in Washington. Nope, you can thank inflation.

There are any number of ways to file a tax return: You can do it yourself, use software…or go to a professional. The IRS isn’t particular.

You, on the other hand, should be particular about who does your taxes, for a very simple reason. Because regardless of who helps fill out your return, you’re going to sign it, and you’re going to be the one responsible for it. So it pays to have your taxes done right.

Starting this year, the IRS began a system to track everyone accepting money to prepare returns. All preparers must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number, or PTIN, and eventually all must demonstrate at least some knowledge of the Federal tax code by passing an exam. Once they do that, they’ll earn the designation of IRS Registered Tax Return Preparer. It’s something you should ask about wherever you get your taxes done this year, and every year from now on.

Before we get into more detail about picking a pro, let’s address a more fundamental question: Do you really need one?

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