How to Address COVID

Guide | Tax Season Checklists

Table of Contents

What to do now … before the big rush

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

5 data security concerns

4 ways to assist staff in preparing for tax season

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

how to address covid

COVID-related items to keep in mind

COVID has provided some unique challenges to CPA firms and their clients. Here are additional items to keep in mind this tax season.

Notify individual and business tax clients with “COVID homes” of potential additional filing obligations and tax effects. What’s a “COVID home”? Who needs to be notified? Read the Risk Alert “COVID Homes” Create Professional Liability Risk for CPA Firms for information on how claims may arise. Consider sending a notification letter to affected individuals. AICPA Tax Section members are able to receive a sample letter.

Ensure remote workers have the resources

needed to be productive. Technology-related resources are foremost, including adequate internet speeds. With multiple individuals working from the home and virtual education, some remote workers also may need mental and emotional resources. Remote Work After the Pandemic and Leading in a Work-From-Home Environment are both good resources.

Fortify the firm's data security protocols

as remote working is likely to continue into the foreseeable future. Consider establishing a virtual private network (VPN) if one is currently not in place. Remind all firm personnel of existing data security policies and revisit these policies in the event that updates are needed. Establish a secure portal to permit clients to safely transmit information to the firm. Data Security Tips to Help Weather a Pandemic outlines additional considerations and recommendations.