Scope of Services
Describe specific accounting tasks (general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, financial statements, tax support), frequency, and deliverable formats to avoid scope creep and billing disputes.
A precise agreement reduces disputes, clarifies who is responsible for regulatory filings and tax reporting, and documents controls for confidential client data. It supports audit readiness, helps allocate costs, and limits liability through defined indemnities and termination provisions.
The agreement is also used by fintech vendors, payment processors, and treasury service providers whenever clear accounting responsibilities and data access rules are required.
Senior finance executives sign to accept deliverables, approve fees, and confirm delegated authority for regulatory filings and bank interactions. Their signature binds the organization to reporting timelines and control obligations.
An authorized representative of the external accounting firm signs to confirm service scope, staffing commitments, confidentiality obligations, and liability limits. This person is the primary contact for escalations and audits.
Describe specific accounting tasks (general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, financial statements, tax support), frequency, and deliverable formats to avoid scope creep and billing disputes.
List fixed fees, hourly rates, invoicing schedule, late payment interest, and expense reimbursement rules to align expectations and cash flow.
Specify data sources, access permissions, encryption requirements, and procedures for handling sensitive customer financial data under applicable law.
Allocate responsibility for regulatory filings, tax reporting, internal controls, and cooperation during audits, including timing and required documentation.
Define confidentiality obligations, permitted uses, and any HIPAA or financial privacy addenda when protected data is involved.
Set notice periods, transition assistance, final accounting obligations, and governing law to minimize disruption when the relationship ends.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signing Order | Sequential or simultaneous signer order, set per role |
| Authentication | Email link, SMS code, or knowledge-based verification |
| Reminder Schedule | Automated reminders every 3 days up to three attempts |
| Save Location | Save executed PDF to cloud storage or ERP system |
Ensure chosen platforms provide a reliable audit trail, secure storage, and meet any necessary industry compliance requirements before deploying at scale.
Provide form upon payer request; maintain current TIN data
File to recipient and IRS by January 31
File electronically to IRS by March 31
Form 1040 due April 15 unless extended
Retain 3 years after hire or 1 year after termination
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial, no credit card | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No envelope cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |