Helping Clients Navigate Tax Season: Top Tips for Professional Tax Preparers
As tax season approaches, professional tax preparers play a crucial role in easing the burden on individuals and businesses. By staying informed and guiding clients through best practices, preparers can help streamline the filing process and reduce common tax time stressors.
The IRS recently shared essential tips to make tax season smoother, and tax professionals can leverage these insights to provide exceptional service to their clients. Here’s how you can help:
1. Encourage Early Preparation
Clients who file early avoid last-minute stress and potential refund delays. Remind them to gather necessary documents, including W-2s, 1099s, and deduction records, as soon as possible. Providing a tax document checklist can ensure they come prepared for their appointment.
2. Verify Taxpayer Information to Avoid Errors
Simple mistakes, like incorrect Social Security numbers or missing signatures, can slow down tax return processing. Double-check all entries to ensure accuracy before submitting returns.
TIME SAVING TIP!
Save time by using the client portal included with all MyTAXPrepOffice plans. MyTAXPortal allows you to enjoy quick and easy two-way communication with your clients in a secure environment branded with your logo. Our free client portal allows you to:
Gather personal and tax information
Exchange important documents
Send tax returns for review
Request signatures remotely
Branded, mobile, and secure, MyTAXPortal delivers a safe, easy-to-use, organized space for you and your clients.
3. Promote IRS Online Resources
Direct clients to IRS.gov for valuable tools like the Where’s My Refund? tracker and online payment options. Educating clients about these resources empowers them to monitor their tax status and stay informed.
4. Highlight Direct Deposit for Faster Refunds
Encourage clients expecting a refund to choose direct deposit, the fastest and safest way to receive their money. Help them verify their banking information to prevent errors that could delay processing.
TIME SAVING TIP!
Offering bank products can beneficial services to both you and your clients.
Clients can choose the disbursement option that's best for them
Take the pressure off of clients by eliminating out-of-pocket cost
Receive your fees directly from your client’s refund
Eliminate collecting late payments or chasing after clients for non-payment
Our bank product applications are integrated into the program, allowing fast data entry and smooth data flow. Grow your business today, and enjoy this easy payment solution for you and your clients.
5. Stay Updated on Tax Law Changes
Tax laws and credits change yearly, affecting eligibility for deductions and refunds. Make sure you are informed about the latest IRS updates so you can provide accurate advice and maximize benefits for your clients.
6. Educate Clients on Scam Prevention
Remind clients that the IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media regarding tax payments. Encourage them to be cautious of scams and report suspicious activity to the IRS.
By following these steps, tax professionals can help clients navigate tax season with confidence, reduce common filing mistakes, and ensure a smoother tax experience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal tax advice. Advanced Tax Solutions is not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information. It is your responsibility to refer to official IRS documentation for information regarding any tax laws or tax information shown here.
