Checklist

[BOB W]

Does anyone have a client interview "checklist" that they would like to share?

[DTS]

Checklist

Bob,

I checked the Internet and found a checklist for 2005, but don't know if you would like it. I looked through all my books and could find nothing to help you out. Also, I checked CFS and Accountant's World and nothing at either place.

If someone can lead me to a site where I can find a good one geared with the new issues in mind, I would appreciate it as well.

Thanks,
Dennis

[Black Bart]

A list of sorts -- interview "tips" mostly.

Does anyone have a client interview "checklist" that they would like to share?

This isn't mine, but instructors passed out copies of it at a tax seminar I once attended:

1. Standardize your questioning sequence and don't allow the client to do it for you--"control" is vital.

2. Standardize your words.

3. Always ask the "adjustments" questions: employee business expense, SE health insurance, moving, student loan interest, IRA, etc.

4. Never run down last year's tax person.

5. Never say "We had X dollars for this last year; what was it this time?" Why invent a problem about where last year's number came from?

6. Sprinkle the interview conversation with comment as to superior quality, X plus years in business, tax specialists, taxes are complicated, we have the equipment and software to do a better job, we leave no stone unturned, etc.

7. Your last question before settling on "taxable income" is: "Do you have any other questions? Have we covered everything on your mind? Good, then we have all your documents and information for the year, right? So we should be about ready to estimate where you stand."

8. SPEAK UP! -- don't whisper.

9. This is not a social hour. Time is (a) short (b) money (c) gone on 4-15.

10. You are not licensed to conduct a tax course.

11. Talk and write as fast as you can. Enunciate the next question as you write down the answer to the last one.

12. Run down a check list quickly relying on the client to stop you if you hit a nerve.

13. Never ask: "What about?" Phrase the question accurately.

14. Avoid asking: "Had a good year?"

15. Never research a matter in front of a client.

16. Remember; nothing is "Easy" or "No trouble."

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[jainen]

I use my organizer

I use my organizer, which comes with a reference book I get.

[OldJack]

4. Never run down last year's tax person.

I like number 4 and would also add that a review of the prior years tax return should not be with the client at first interview. The client didn't come to you for an amendment of prior years. And finally, an amendment of prior year tax returns should be done only after discussing why with the prior tax return preparer and then the approval of the client.