A smooth transition to a new tax professional starts with organized records and clear expectations. Use this checklist before the first preparation cycle begins.
Provide prior returns
Supply complete federal, state, local, and business returns for the years requested, including depreciation schedules and supporting statements.
Transfer carryover information
Identify capital-loss carryovers, passive losses, charitable carryovers, basis schedules, credit carryforwards, and prior-year elections.
List current entities and states
Include businesses, rentals, trusts, retirement accounts, and states where you live, work, own property, or conduct business.
Explain major changes
Note moves, marriages, divorces, births, retirements, business changes, property sales, inheritances, large gains, or IRS notices.
Agree on communication and security
Confirm portal use, deadlines, how questions are handled, who prepares and reviews the return, and what the engagement includes.