FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I charge a flat fee based on the type of return (e.g., individual, business, or estate) and its complexity. An individual tax return (Form 1040) might have a flat fee ranging from $150 to $500, depending on the specifics. Starting fees are typically around $850 for partnership and corporate tax returns, depending on the quality of your accounting records.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When I begin working with a new client, the process typically follows these key steps: 1. Initial Contact and Consultation Purpose: Understand the client’s needs and assess whether there’s a good fit. Activities: Schedule an introductory meeting or call. Discuss the client’s goals, concerns, and expectations. Outline my services and approach. Determine the client’s specific requirements (e.g., tax preparation, bookkeeping, financial planning, audits). 2. Engagement Agreement Purpose: Establish a formal working relationship. Activities: Draft and review an engagement letter detailing: Scope of work. Fee structure and payment terms. Responsibilities of both the CPA and the client. Obtain the client’s signature to formalize the agreement. 3. Client Onboarding Purpose: Gather necessary information to start work effectively. Activities: Collect essential documents (e.g., prior tax returns, financial statements, payroll records). Request relevant details about the client’s business or personal financial situation. Set up access to accounting systems or software, if applicable. 4. Data Review and Assessment Purpose: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the client’s financial situation. Activities: Analyze historical data to identify discrepancies or areas of concern. Assess compliance with applicable tax laws and regulations. Discuss findings with the client and outline an initial action plan. 5. Planning and Strategy Development Purpose: Create a customized plan to address the client’s needs. Activities: Develop a tax strategy, financial plan, or operational process improvements. Recommend tools, technologies, or systems for efficient record-keeping and reporting. Establish a timeline for deliverables. 6. Execution of Services Purpose: Provide ongoing or project-specific services. Activities: Perform agreed-upon tasks (e.g., tax filing, financial reporting, audits). Communicate regularly with the client to provide updates. Address questions or concerns as they arise. 7. Regular Communication and Follow-Up Purpose: Maintain a strong, collaborative relationship. Activities: Schedule periodic check-ins to discuss financial performance or changes. Send reminders for key deadlines (e.g., tax filing dates). Provide updates on regulatory or industry changes that may affect the client. 8. Feedback and Continuous Improvement Purpose: Ensure satisfaction and adapt services as needed. Activities: Request feedback on the CPA’s performance. Adjust strategies or services based on the client’s evolving needs. Offer additional services, if appropriate, to support the client’s growth or compliance. By following these steps, I establish trust, provide value, and create long-term relationships with my clients.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a combination of formal education, certification, practical experience, and ongoing professional development. I have a strong grasp of federal, state, and local tax laws. I stay updated on changes in legislation. I am required to complete a certain number of CPE hours annually to maintain my license and I regularly attend workshops, seminars, or online courses focused on new tax regulations. I also participate in training on advanced tax strategies, estate planning, or international tax to expand my expertise. I have the ability to interpret complex tax regulations and identify opportunities for tax savings. I also received training in explaining tax strategies and compliance requirements to clients in clear terms, ensuring accuracy in preparing returns and financial statements, maintaining high professional standards and client confidentiality and delivering the highest level of service to clients.