Provide a training plan for staff and independent contractors, concentrating on changes in local, state, and federal tax laws, including those related to new and expiring tax provisions. Include a timeline for completion. Consider separate training tracks for staff, managers, and partners, whose responsibilities regarding tax return preparation may differ.

Train all firm members on the importance of protecting client data, both physical and electronic, at all times, and especially during this busy time of the year. Read The Armor of Awareness to learn what each person at the firm can do to protect client data.

Review library resources and training materials and ensure that up-to-date resources are available to staff. Verify that staff has access to electronic tools and databases used as reference materials.

Revise procedures based upon last year’s post tax-secson wrap-up meeting to improve current year processes for managing tax return preparation.

Remind the tax department to amend the engagement letters for changes in scope. If a reminder is needed, recommend that the group read Don’t Let Scope Creep Lead You Out of Bounds.