Why deal with stimulus issues?

[thomtax]

I agree with John. I don't have a large business and most of it is because I will talk to them if they have a problem. If I don't want to help, then I have lost the goodwill that helps make my business.

I know if I were a client and was told to "do it myself", I would be an ex-client. I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated.

LT

[JohnH]

I initially had the same attitude about it not being my problem, but I've come around to the idea that a small investment of time & effort on my part yields a significant amount of goodwill with the client when there is a problem. There really isn't much to do other than a quick lookup on the web site; beyond that it's up to the client to call IRS to get more info.

I agree with erchess - the rebate has become quite an emotional issue for taxpayers, so if they perceive that their preparer isn't interested, they may show their displeasure by leaving when next tax season rolls around.

[erchess]

My two cents

People can file their own tax returns with help from the IRS or after doing some reading. What you gain by paying a professional is time freedom and the assurance that the professional has a smaller chance of making a mistake than you do. However doing your own taxes is not at all like removing your own appendix - a feat hardly anyone could do.

As a customer if my tax professional seemed reluctant to assist me with my stimulus payment I would find another professional.

[taxea]

Whenever I get a question from a client re the stimulus I refer them to the IRS. This issue has nothing to do with the preparer other than filing a return for those who are eligible for the payment....whether or not they get the money is totally up to the IRS and they should be contacted directly by the taxpayer if any questions arise when the taxpayer doesn't get what they expected or doesn't get anything.

All I can do is research the website or call the IRS...which the taxpayer can do without my assistance or paying me for the additional service. taxea