Taxes: How to Bill More for Post-Filing Work

Source: IRS Inside

In this blog entry, Jim Buttonow offers the following four strategies CPAs can use to successfully bill for post-filing work, such as federal and state notice work, consultation and advisory services, and representation:

1. Educate your client. The better your client understands federal and state compliance activity – and the more transparent you are about the services covered in your engagements – the more successful you'll be.
2. Receive your clients' notices. To provide clients with proactive advice, ensure that you're copied on their notices by using Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization.
3. Set clear expectations. Use “scoping engagements” to define expectations and avoid surprises.
4. Equip your firm. Update antiquated, inefficient processes. Keep abreast of current practice and procedure tools.

For the complete entry, read “Four steps to bill more for practice and procedure work.”

From IRS Inside, May 28, 2013, http://www.cpapracticeadvisor.com/blogs/irs-inside.