Tax season is right around the corner, what steps have your tax business taken to be prepared for the 2023 tax season? Your partners at SwiftFP have your back this tax season with our Preseason Checklist for the month of December. In this article we go over all the steps your tax business should be taking to ensure you have the most stress-free tax season possible.
IRS Tasks
- Apply for new EFINs (if applicable) online via e-Services at www.irs.gov.
- Register and/or renew PTINs with the IRS online at www.irs.gov/ptin.
- Familiarize yourself with new laws, credits and other topics that could affect your clients.
Bank Tasks
- Find out the requirements needed to be approve to offer Refund Advance to your clients
- Read in depth about the Refund Advance Product and how it may affect your clients (Availability Fees, Interest, Default, etc.)
- Register with a bank. To find banking partners with SFP Works visit our Sign-Up sheet here.
- Understand current IRS e-filing requirements by visiting http://www.irs.gov/for-Tax-Pros
Software Tasks
- If you have not yet renewed your 2016/2017 SFP Works Professional Tax Software, we advice you do so.
- Install SFP Works Professional Tax Software by calling in to our support.
- Test the software to ensure full functionality.
- Familiarize yourself with new SFP Works features and functionality
- Set your fee amounts
Operational Tasks
- Test your computer or office network and upgrade as needed
- Test your printers
- Prepare your office filing system and research other backup system
- Order office supplies
Training Tasks
- Familiarize yourself with tax law changes and preparer compliance.
- Train your staff on software Functionality, Electronic Signature Pads, Handheld Scanners, Document Manager.
- Tax Theory.
- Office Systems and Processes.
- Encourage your staff to follow us on social media for Tax Updates and support messages.
Marketing Tasks
- Plan marketing program for existing and new customers
- Order posters, postcards, and customer giveaways. JPS Print designed print templates available at jprintshop.com
- Plan tax season promotions
- Update or perform maintenance on store signage
- Increase storefront visibility now – keep interior lights on, hang banners and window posters, balloons, etc.
- Schedule pre-season appointments for prior year customers
- Email / text message / postcard / phone blitz
- Send “What to bring to your appointment” checklist
We here at SwiftFP hope this information was helpful for you and your tax business. If you would like to learn more then feel free to contact us when you click here. You can also download this checklist as a pdf when you click the button below. Good luck with your 2023 tax season!
