No one enjoys paying taxes, even with the understanding that its necessary. But, did you know that mitigating some of the sting of your annual taxes could be possible? That's right, sometimes all it takes is a little preparation and the advice of a seasoned professional. Like most things in life, thinking about taxes early and often means you’re on the right path to success.

But often times, having a solid grasp on your tax situation can be nearly impossible for the average investor — especially as your portfolio grows! And even with a large amount of solid preparation, tax law can be fraught with rules and regulations that baffle even the savviest of us. Luckily, financial or tax professionals love nothing more than helping their clients prepare for tax season. Preparing for taxes now can help ensure peace of mind later and possibly lessen the chance of an audit in the future.