1. What are my main financial goals?
A. Lowering tax liability, improving cash flow, staying compliant, or growing my business?
2. What challenges am I facing with my finances?
A. Messy books, tax planning, payroll issues, IRS concerns, or time constraints?
3. Do I need help with tax preparation, bookkeeping, or both?
A. Understanding whether you need ongoing bookkeeping, just tax filing, or year-round financial guidance.
4. What income sources do I need to report?
A. Wages, self-employment, rental income, investments, or side businesses?
5. What deductions and credits might apply to me?
A. Business expenses, home office, education credits, retirement contributions, etc.?
6. Do I need to make estimated tax payments?
A. If you’re self-employed or earn income without tax withholding, should you be paying quarterly?
7. Am I properly tracking tax-related documents?
A. Do I have W-2s, 1099s, receipts, and other important records organized?
8. Do I need help with IRS notices or past-due returns?
A. If you have back taxes, penalties, or audits, what’s the best way to resolve them?
9. What’s my budget for bookkeeping or tax preparation?
A. Understanding what services I can afford and the ROI of outsourcing financial management.
10. What questions should I ask my tax preparer or bookkeeper?
A. Their experience, fees, software used, communication style, and how they can help my unique situation.