Looks like the rocky economy hasn t spared anyone--including your local tax pro. Many major tax-prep franchises took a hit last year; the number of returns completed by Jackson Hewittsales of TurboTax, the number crunchers may be in for another tough year. Of course, trouble for the industry could mean good deals for you. Below, our guide to getting your taxes done for less.

Group discounts for family members are increasingly common in the tax world, with some preparers offering savings of up to a third of the total bill for parents of college-age dependents. Referral discounts are also popular; Tracey Hennessey, an enrolled agent in Elkhorn, Wis., is rewarding anyone who brings in at least four new customers this year with a free return. Tax preparers are also using social networking to spread the word about discounts not heavily advertised elsewhere; Peoples Income Tax, which has 10 offices in Virginia, is using LinkedIn to promote its 50 percent discount for people who lost their jobs last year.

Mix and Match

For those who need a little face time, H&R Block is offering a new $100 combo option, which allows people to complete their taxes online, then bring them into an office to be checked and corrected for about $80 less than having it done by a pro. TurboTax, too, is rolling out more ways for filers to get a little extra help. This year people using the company s online products can make an unlimited number of calls to the company s telephone help line for an additional flat fee.

Timing Is Everything

Many tax preparers say they re willing to cut a deal for clients who avoid the Tax Day rush. Getting in early may be the best bet for a discount, but Bruce Bergley, a Minneapolis-based CPA, says he ll trim existing clients bills by about 10 percent if they ll file after Apr. 15 (they will need to file an extension and pay any owed taxes, of course). If you re willing to let the accountant catch his breath, I d see about negotiating, says Bergley. If you must get your taxes done during crunch time, experts suggest seeking out preparers who are new to the business and willing to offer a deal in exchange for the chance to pump up their client list.