Category: Client Management

The Art of War – Working with Clients, Setting Boundaries to prevent an invasion

Greetings, valiant warriors of the of the tax code! In the grand arena of financial combat, where numbers clash and deductions duel, you stand as the fearless generals leading the charge. But even the most skilled tactician must not only face the external foes of complexity and ever-changing regulations that the IRS and Congress gives us but also manage the allies (clients) within their own camp.

Ah, yes, clients! The very lifeblood of our practice, as essential to our survival as air to a dragon’s flame. Yet, like a double-edged sword, they can uplift or undo us. Fear not, for I come bearing the ancient scrolls of wisdom to guide you in mastering the art of client management, ensuring you rule your practice with the authority of a seasoned commander, setting boundaries as formidable as castle walls.

1. Assert Your Dominance: You Control the Battlefield, Not the Invaders

Remember, brave souls, your practice is your kingdom, and you are its leader. The standards you set are the laws of the land. When clients enter your domain, they do so to seek your expertise, your guidance through the treacherous tax terrain. It is essential to make it known that while their input is valued, it is you who charts the course of the campaign. The map is in your hands; you know the shortcuts and the pitfalls. Stand firm, for a kingdom without rules is but a village awaiting conquest.

2. The Fortress of Boundaries: Erecting Impenetrable Walls

As any seasoned warrior knows, a fortress with weak defenses invites disaster. Thus, you must construct unassailable walls in the form of clear, explicit boundaries. Office hours are your drawbridge; services offered are your moat. Let these boundaries be known from the outset, and make no exceptions, for the moment you do, the enemy spies weakness. A boundary respected is an alliance strengthened. This includes not responding to email, texts and phone calls immediately.

3. The Ritual of Firing: Banishing the Unruly from Your Kingdom

Alas, there comes a time in every ruler’s reign when they must face the unpleasant duty of banishing those who defy the laws of the land. Clients who consistently breach your walls, ignoring the sacred boundaries you’ve set, must be sent forth from your kingdom. This is no act of cruelty but a necessary purification, ensuring the health and prosperity of your realm. Let it be known that your practice is not a

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To efile now or to wait! A Retroactive mess

In the world of taxes, uncertainty is a constant companion. As tax professionals, we often find ourselves in the tricky situation of deciding whether to file tax returns for our clients when Congress is on the verge of changing tax rules retroactively as they are currently facing. This conundrum presents unique challenges and requires a balanced approach, ensuring compliance while safeguarding clients’ interests.

Understanding the Complexity

Retroactive tax law changes, though not frequent, are a reality. When Congress signals potential changes, it can disrupt the usual tax planning and filing process. The changes can affect various aspects of tax law, including rates, deductions, credits, and even filing procedures. The implications for both individual and business clients can be significant.

The Professional’s Dilemma

As tax professionals, our primary goal is to serve our clients’ best interests while adhering to the law. When facing potential retroactive changes, we are caught between two imperatives: filing timely returns and optimizing clients’ tax positions. Delaying filing might benefit the client if the law changes favorably, but it also risks non-compliance and penalties if the changes don’t materialize or don’t apply as expected.

Best Practices in Times of Uncertainty

  1. Stay Informed and Inform Your Clients: Keep abreast of legislative developments and understand the potential impact on your clients. Clear communication is vital. Inform clients about the possible changes and the risks and benefits of waiting to file.
  2. Evaluate Each Client’s Situation Individually: No two clients are the same. Consider the unique aspects of each client’s tax situation. For some, the potential benefits of waiting may outweigh the risks, while for others, the opposite may be true.
  3. Consider Filing Extensions: When appropriate, filing an extension can be a strategic move. It gives both you and your client more time to make informed decisions based on the finalized tax laws.
  4. Document Your Advice and Decisions: Keep detailed records of your communications with clients regarding the potential law changes and your advice. Give them options and let them make the decision. This documentation can be crucial in demonstrating due diligence. If you discuss this with your client verbally (in person or on the phone), document it in writing by following it with an email or letter. This can be a great “Get out of jail FREE!” card.
  5. Prepare for Multiple Scenarios: Develop tax strategies that can adapt to different outcomes. This proactive approach can minimize disruptions and last-minute scrambling.
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