Kinda wonder why I would take this TP on as a client

[AZ-Tax]

I recently had 2 calls from members of my church (prospects). I told them the best I can do is file an extension for them and I normally charge $35 for that but waive that fee for fellow church members. They both replied ok so I go thru the time to prepare the emails with my tax organizer with instructions to complete only pg 1 for now and a copy of their 1st page of their 2008 tax return form 1040, 1040EZ etc. Then I ask them again are you ok with filing an extension. The reply again is yes so I go ahead and email and couple days later follow up to make sure I had the correct email address etc. 10 days later no reply and I have a hunch they went to some one else but WHY cant they just tell you up front that was their intention all along.

[JG EA]

A suggestion. Have them come in to do a partial return so as to do a better extension. This way you'll have their papers, can set up an appointment to finish, and then they probably wouldn't go somewhere else.

If they aren't willing to do that then they probably are just trying to get your services for free as a friend. I can understand people trying to get something for free, but as one member on this board said somewhere 'I have other things to do with my time'. I don't mind helping people out, but I like to choose what I do and when, and I work too hard to be taken advantage of by people that don't consider me important enough to pay.

[JohnH]

I also like the one who said:
"If I'm going to work for free, I'd just as soon take the time off."