Every preparer deals with difficult clients. Here are the five types you'll encounter and how to handle each. The Incomplete Client They hand you half their documents and swear it's everything. Build your intake process…
What Happens When Your Client Gets an IRS Notice
A client will call you and say "I got a letter from the IRS." Here's your playbook. Step 1: Stay Calm Most IRS notices are not audits. Many are routine. But they all require attention.…
S-Corp vs. LLC: How to Explain Entity Selection to Your Clients
Your self-employed clients will ask this question. Having a clear, accurate answer ready positions you as a knowledgeable practitioner. Clearing Up the Confusion An LLC is a state-level entity structure. An S-Corp is a federal…
What to Put on Your Tax Preparation Business Website
You need a website. It doesn't need to be expensive or elaborate. It needs to be professional, clear, and functional. Here's what to include. Your Name and Credentials People want to know who they're trusting…
How to Turn Tax Season Clients into Year-Round Advisory Revenue
The return is the entry point, not the entire relationship. Here's how to extend your client engagements beyond April. The Delivery Conversation The moment with the most advisory potential is the return delivery appointment. You've…
What States Require a License to Prepare Tax Returns?
Most states require nothing beyond the federal PTIN. But a handful have their own registration, education, or licensing requirements. Here's where things stand. California Non-exempt preparers must register with the California Tax Education Council (CTEC)…
How to Build a Referral Network That Sends You Clients Year-Round
Referrals from other professionals are the highest-quality, lowest-cost clients you'll ever get. Here's how to build a network that produces them consistently. Who to Target Real estate agents talk to homebuyers and sellers with tax…
When Should a Tax Preparer Refer a Client to an Attorney?
Knowing when to refer is one of the most important skills a tax preparer can develop. It protects your client, protects you, and builds your professional reputation. IRS Audits If your client gets an examination…
How to Spot Tax Planning Opportunities in Every Return You Prepare
The difference between a preparer who earns $250 per client and one who earns $500 or more is the ability to see beyond the current return to what the client could do differently next year.…
The Hidden Costs of Buying a Tax Preparation Franchise
Franchise marketing focuses on the brand recognition and the "proven system." Here's what the brochure downplays. The Initial Investment Franchise fees for the major tax preparation brands (H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, Liberty Tax) range from…