Each year, tax preparers typically expect an influx of filers who are ready to file as soon as the IRS opens. Effective workflow practices help you to capitalize on the increase in business. Here’s what you can do to stay organized and efficient during this early rush.
Review current tax law changes and updates
To ensure a smooth tax season, make sure you’re familiar with the following changes before clients begin to arrive:
- Any new and updated tax forms
- Changes to tax rates and income brackets
- Updates to frequently claimed credits
To stay informed, follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our TaxSlayer Pro newsletter. We cover all the latest news, helping you stay in the know and get timely updates on important changes as they happen.
Encourage remote meetings
Remote tax filing can save significant time for both you and your clients. If you have TaxSlayer Pro Web or TaxSlayer Pro Premium, encourage clients to use the TaxesToGo app.
They’ll find it easier to share documents, and because the app automatically inputs their data into your tax software, you’ll save time too. Automatic notifications simplify communication, letting your clients know where you are in the process of filing their returns and allowing you to easily send requests for additional information.
Learn more: Thinking About Moving Your Tax Firm Remote? Here’s Why TaxSlayer ProWeb is for You
Simplify scheduling
Scheduling all of your appointments yourself can take hours each work week. Automating scheduling with an online system allows clients to book their own appointments online, minimizing the number of calls you receive. If scheduling is still a hassle, you might consider hiring an assistant or virtual assistant for the remainder of the busy season.
Go paperless
A paperless office will drastically reduce the time you spend storing, organizing, and searching for files. You may not have time to digitize all of your existing paper files before the season begins, but you can easily switch to paperless document storage. If you use TaxSlayer Pro Premium or TaxSlayer Pro Web, you already have everything you need to go fully digital for your document storage.
Set up refund transfers
Refund transfers, or bank products, may turn out to be especially important for both tax professionals and taxpayers who want their refund fast this season. Refund transfers enable them to pay your fee directly from their tax refund, allowing them to file and receive their much-needed tax refund and use your services at no out-of-pocket cost. For tax preparers, refund transfers simplify the payment process as the refund settlement banks will deposit your payment directly into your account.
Our Pre-Tax Season Checklist series covers all the steps you need to take to offer refund transfers to your clients.
There’s still time to check out the rest of our Pre-Tax Season Checklist series as well. We cover everything from computer maintenance to PTIN renewal so you can face the tax return rush feeling organized and prepared. Find all the posts in our series below:
IRS, State, & Bank Requirements
Computer Networking and Helpful Resources for Tax Preparers
Read also: Tips to Get You Through the End of Tax Season Rush
Not sure where to start? Compare tax software packages here and check out our exclusive guide, How to Choose the Right Software. If you need more assistance, get in touch with our team to find your perfect tax software solution.
