
Guide | Tax Season Checklists
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Table of Contents

7 ways to help clients prepare

5 steps to review e-file requirements and processes

4 ways to update engagement letters

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

7 steps to prepare the firm for tax season

4 ways to assist staff in preparing for tax season
What to do now … before the big rush

5 data security concerns
What to do during busy tax season
12 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

2 ways to plan for deadlines and help avoid careless errors

2 keys to survival
How to Address COVID

3 COVID-related items to keep in mind
what to do during tax busy season
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items to memorialize in a control log to help avoid missed deadlines
Every busy season, there are untimely filed tax returns, and claims can arise from this. A control log is a great way to mitigate the risk of a claim, but have you considered adding these items to your docket system?
Include all tax returns and related forms,
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Incorporate PPP loan forgiveness applications deadlines, if applicable.
If a client has engaged the firm to assist them in applying for loan forgiveness, add the final date to file the request into the firm’s control log or docket system. If a deadline is missed and proceeds are not forgiven, the client may blame the CPA.3
Remember to include IRS and state correspondence
with due dates for notices and information document requests. The IRS accumulated more than 11 million pieces of unopened mail after reducing operations due to COVID-19, approximately half of which remained unopened as of October 2, 2020. Obtain powers of attorney so the firm may access the IRS’s e-systems to understand the status of items caught-up in the backlog. Documentation will be critical, including receiving notices from clients timely and retaining copies of certified mail receipts. If correspondence is lost or misplaced by the IRS, and the CPA does not have appropriate documentation, clients may blame their CPA for adverse consequences. Consider including reminder dates in the control log for follow-up with the client or tax agency, if warranted4
Consider memorializing the following information
in the control log:
- Original and extended filing due dates for each tax return,
- Responsible client parties,
- Information receipt date,
- Date(s) additional information is requested or questions asked,
- Date(s) of client response(s) to additional information requested,
- Completion dates by preparers and reviewers,
- Approvals by the firm and client, and
- Assembly, delivery, mailing, filing and acceptance dates.