Scope of Services
Describe exactly which returns, years, and advisory work are included and list exclusions to limit ambiguity.
A written engagement letter reduces ambiguity, allocates responsibilities, and documents mutual consent to services and fees in compliance workflows.
Common signers include tax preparers, CPAs, enrolled agents, corporate controllers, and individual taxpayers who retain tax compliance services.
The letter should identify the authorized representative for each party and list delegated tasks to avoid role confusion during audits or filings.
Describe exactly which returns, years, and advisory work are included and list exclusions to limit ambiguity.
State final outputs (signed returns, schedules, filing-ready PDFs) and whether electronic copies or signed originals will be provided.
List documents the client must provide and the deadlines for supplying those materials to avoid missed filing dates.
Specify flat fees or hourly rates, retainer amounts, billing frequency, and consequences for late payment.
Define maximum liability, indemnities, and disclaimers for reliance on client-supplied information.
State record retention periods and how client or regulator access to files will be handled.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signer Order | Set sequential signing when signatures must follow a specific authorization chain. |
| Authentication | Require email verification or SMS code for signer attribution and stronger audit evidence. |
| Required Fields | Mark dates, TIN, and signature blocks as required so the document cannot be completed missing essentials. |
| Audit Trail | Enable full audit logging to capture IP, timestamp, and signer actions for evidentiary support. |
Choose a platform that supports compliant e-signing, audit trails, and appropriate authentication for tax documents.
Provide upon request; no fixed IRS filing deadline
Recipient and IRS due Jan 31 each year
Recipient due Jan 31; IRS paper Feb 28, electronic Mar 31
Form 1040 due April 15; extension to Oct 15 with Form 4868
Due April 15 with automatic extension to Oct 15
Client and preparer accept scope, fees, and start date.
Client provides records and supporting documents for return preparation.
Preparer issues draft returns for client approval before filing.
File returns, deliver copies, and retain records per retention schedule.
| 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 | Yes | Yes | No | No |
The team adopted a standard engagement letter to clarify deliverables and timelines.
The organization standardized engagement letters for recurring tax services.