2 ways to plan for deadlines and help avoid careless errors

Guide | Tax Season Checklists

Table of Contents

What to do now … before the big rush

7 ways to help clients prepare

4 steps to review e-file requirements and processes

5 ways to update engagement letters

3 must-do’s to review client acceptance and continuance

7 steps to prepare the firm for tax season

5 data security concerns

4 ways to assist staff in preparing for tax season

What to do during tax season

13 items to cover in a pre-tax season staff meeting

4 items to memorialize in a control log to help avoid missed deadlines

4 things to remember when testing tax software

9 tasks that should be perfomed for each client

3 ways to plan for deadlines and help avoid careless errors

2 keys to survival

How to Address COVID

4 COVID-related items to keep in mind

what to do during tax season

ways to plan for deadlines and help avoid careless errors

Tax season is a hill that becomes steeper as April 15th approaches. Taking these steps now may reduce the incline.

Train staff to perform “tick and tie” reviews

of simple returns during busy season.

If the final information required to complete the return is minor

and will not be received until close to the deadline, consider preparing an initial draft return, including reviewing and filing for an extension early.

Obtain a Form 8878, IRS e-file Signature Authorization for Form 4868 or Form 2350, or state equivalents signed by the client, prior to filing an application for an extension of time to file or the final return.