onboarding new and returning tax clients for 2024. needchecklist that covers all possible scenarios
Client Information Questionnaire
- Provide your first, middle, and last name.
- Ensure the name matches your legal documents.
- Double-check for spelling errors.
- List the best phone number to reach you.
- Include your primary email address.
- Verify the accuracy of the contact details.
- Enter your full street address, including apartment number if applicable.
- Include the city, state, and ZIP code.
- Ensure the address is current and complete.
- Provide your SSN or EIN as applicable.
- Ensure the number is accurate and formatted correctly.
- Handle this information securely and privately.
- Indicate your marital status clearly.
- If married, provide your spouse's full name.
- Include your spouse's SSN if applicable.
- List all dependents, including children and others.
- Provide each dependent's full name and SSN.
- Confirm the information is accurate and complete.
- Provide the full date in MM/DD/YYYY format.
- Ensure accuracy for tax-related age calculations.
- Include any relevant legal documents if needed.
- Specify your current job title and employer.
- Include the employer’s address and contact number.
- Mention any changes since the last tax filing.
- Indicate if there has been a name change.
- Provide the previous name and the date of change.
- Attach legal documentation if applicable.
- List any alternate phone numbers or email addresses.
- Ensure they are regularly checked for updates.
- Include the best time to contact you.
- Choose one of the options provided.
- Provide documentation if necessary for tax implications.
- Note any pending changes in marital status.
- Provide your spouse's full date in MM/DD/YYYY format.
- Include any relevant documentation if needed.
- Ensure accuracy for joint tax filing purposes.
- Select the appropriate status.
- Provide documentation to support your status.
- Clarify any complexities regarding residency.
- Specify if you hold a valid driver's license or ID.
- Provide the ID number and issuing state.
- Attach a copy if required for verification.
- State your previous address including city and zip code.
- Include the date of the move.
- Note if any mail forwarding is in place.
- List all health insurance providers and policy numbers.
- Specify coverage types and effective dates.
- Attach relevant cards or documentation.
- Indicate if there is a power of attorney.
- Provide the name, phone number, and email of the representative.
- Attach a copy of the power of attorney document.
- State if you are involved in bankruptcy.
- Provide details about the type and status of the proceedings.
- Attach relevant documentation if necessary.
- List all concerns or questions you may have.
- Include specific issues that need clarification.
- Mention any deadlines or time-sensitive matters.
Income Sources
- List all income sources clearly.
- Include W-2 employment details.
- Detail self-employment activities.
- Specify rental income properties.
- Mention any other income types.
- Gather all W-2 forms for the tax year.
- Collect all 1099 forms received.
- Ensure documents are complete and accurate.
- Organize forms by source for clarity.
- List all investment accounts.
- Include dividend statements.
- Attach any relevant transaction records.
- Provide brokerage statements if applicable.
- Detail all unemployment benefits received.
- Include documentation for government assistance.
- Specify the duration of assistance.
- Gather any correspondence related to benefits.
Deductions and Credits
- Gather mortgage interest statements from your lender.
- Collect your property tax documents from local authorities.
- Ensure all documents are current and reflect the 2024 tax year.
- Organize documents for easy reference during filing.
- Compile a comprehensive list of medical expenses incurred.
- Include receipts for all medical services and products.
- Ensure expenses relate to the 2024 tax year.
- Organize documentation by date or category for clarity.
- List all retirement accounts you contribute to.
- Include contribution amounts for the 2024 tax year.
- Gather any relevant account statements for verification.
- Confirm eligibility for tax deductions based on income.
- Document all charitable donations made in 2024.
- Collect receipts or acknowledgment letters from charities.
- Ensure donations meet IRS requirements for deductions.
- Organize contributions by date and amount for easy access.
- Gather all tuition statements from educational institutions.
- List any student loan interest paid during the year.
- Collect Form 1098-E for student loan interest.
- Ensure all documents are accurate and pertain to 2024.
Tax Filing History
- Locate copies of your last 2-3 tax returns.
- Ensure they are complete and legible.
- If not available, request copies from your previous tax preparer or the IRS.
- Submit the copies securely via email or document upload.
- Review your records for any notices from the IRS or state.
- Summarize the content and dates of the notices.
- Note any actions taken in response to these notices.
- Share this information during onboarding discussion.
- Gather contact details of your former tax professional.
- Include their name, phone number, and email address.
- If possible, note the duration of your professional relationship.
- Provide this information for potential follow-up or collaboration.
Financial and Personal Changes
- Gather documentation for job changes, including offers and termination letters.
- Collect records of any inheritances received, including wills and estate documentation.
- Note any unemployment benefits or severance received during job transitions.
- Review changes in income sources and amounts for accurate tax reporting.
- Provide proof of new address, such as utility bills or lease agreements.
- Update voter registration and driver's license with new residency information.
- Identify changes in state residency implications for tax filings.
- Document dates of move and any related costs for deductions.
- Share marriage certificate or divorce decree for relationship status updates.
- Provide birth certificate for new dependents and related childcare expenses.
- Discuss changes in filing status and potential tax benefits or liabilities.
- Update beneficiary designations on accounts reflecting life changes.
Client Preferences
- Provide options for communication methods.
- Ensure client understands each method's benefits.
- Confirm preferred method and any alternative options.
- Document communication preferences in client file.
- Explain the pros and cons of each method.
- Ask if the client has any technology limitations.
- Confirm preferred document delivery method.
- Ensure compliance with data security measures.
- Briefly outline available additional services.
- Gauge client interest and needs regarding services.
- Provide information on potential costs involved.
- Document any expressed interest for follow-up.
- Discuss frequency options (monthly, quarterly, etc.).
- Consider client's schedule and preferences.
- Establish a communication plan based on agreed frequency.
- Document the check-in schedule in client records.
Use in Manifestly