Scope of Work
Describe the audit periods, tax types (income, payroll, sales), and specific services such as correspondence, representation at meetings, and drafting responses.
A written engagement letter reduces misunderstandings about representation, limits professional liability exposure, and documents agreed fees and deliverables. For clients it provides a record of what to expect during an audit response; for preparers it documents instructions and limits of engagement.
The letter is used by tax professionals and their clients across individuals, businesses, and nonprofits when audits or examinations are probable or underway.
Use the letter to document who will interact with the tax authority, who provides records, and who pays fees; this minimizes later disputes.
Describe the audit periods, tax types (income, payroll, sales), and specific services such as correspondence, representation at meetings, and drafting responses.
Specify the IRS or state forms or power of attorney (e.g., Form 2848) the client will sign to authorize representation and which actions the professional is empowered to take.
State hourly rates or fixed fees, retainer amounts, invoicing cadence, billing for travel or expert consultation, and expense reimbursement rules.
List documents the client must provide, deadlines for delivery, who retains originals, and responsibilities for accuracy and completeness of supplied records.
Outline confidentiality limits, exceptions (subpoenas, legal compulsion), and whether information sharing with third-party advisors is permitted.
Describe how either party may end the engagement, notice periods, final accounting, and return or retention of client records after termination.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Client Info Fields | Require full legal name, EIN/SSN (redacted as needed), address, and contact info. |
| Authorization Upload | Enable file upload for Form 2848 and identity documents; set required flag. |
| Signature Fields | Add signature, printed name, title, and date fields; mark required for all signers. |
| Notifications | Configure email/SMS reminders and assign internal reviewers for completed documents. |
Use an electronic signing method that documents signer intent, consent, attribution, and retention to meet ESIGN/UETA standards.
Ensure the chosen platform supports encryption, audit trails, and retention so the signed letter is admissible and reproducible for the audit record.
Marks when preparer duties and client obligations begin.
Specify dates for client to provide supporting records.
Form 2848 should be submitted before in-person meetings.
Actions may be constrained by filing and assessment windows.
Set invoice dates and retainer replenishment deadlines.
| 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 | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes (BAA) | Yes (BAA) | Yes (BAA) | No | No |