Tax Preparer Engagement Letter

TAX PREPARER ENGAGEMENT LETTER

Date:

Parties and Identifying Information

Entity Type and Taxpayer Identification

Entity type (check applicable):

Individual / Sole Proprietor    C Corporation    S Corporation

Partnership    Trust / Estate    LLC    Other:

Taxpayer Identification Number (provide only one):

Scope of Engagement

The preparer will prepare the federal and state income tax return(s) specified below based solely on information provided by the client. The preparer will exercise professional judgment in the application of tax law but will not examine supporting documentation for accuracy or completeness except as expressly agreed.

Client Responsibilities

The client is responsible for providing complete and accurate information necessary for the preparer to perform services, including but not limited to income statements, receipts, prior year returns, and other documentation. The client is responsible for retaining all source documents, cancelled checks and other evidence of income and expenses.

Fees, Billing and Payment

Fees for services will be based on the preparer's standard hourly rates or a flat fee as agreed in writing. The client is responsible for timely payment of fees and any out-of-pocket expenses. The preparer reserves the right to suspend work for nonpayment.

Hourly    Flat fee   

Authorizations and Consents

The client authorizes the preparer to (a) communicate with third parties (financial institutions, payroll providers, tax authorities) as needed to obtain information necessary for the preparation of returns; (b) electronically file returns and transmit information required for filing; and (c) use electronic signatures where permitted. The preparer may retain copies of tax returns and supporting documents but will return originals upon request.

Authorize third-party contacts: Yes    No

Limitations, Representation and Indemnity

The preparer will not audit, verify, or otherwise investigate the information provided by the client. In the event of an examination, the preparer may, by separate engagement, represent the client. The client agrees to indemnify and hold the preparer harmless for claims arising from false, incomplete or misleading information provided by the client or from the client's failure to provide requested documentation.

Record Retention

The client is advised to retain all records, supporting documentation, and copies of returns for a minimum period consistent with applicable statutes. The preparer will retain copies of prepared returns for a reasonable period unless otherwise agreed.

Confidentiality and Privacy

The preparer will maintain the confidentiality of client information except as required by law or as authorized by the client. The client understands that communications may be transmitted electronically and that absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where electronic transmission is used.

Termination

Either party may terminate this engagement upon written notice. The client remains responsible for payment of fees and expenses incurred prior to termination and for any work product delivered.

Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

This engagement letter will be governed by the laws of the state specified below. Disputes arising under this engagement shall be resolved by the procedures selected below.

Certification and Acknowledgment

By signing below the client certifies and acknowledges the following under penalty of perjury where applicable:

1. All information furnished to the preparer is true, accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and I will provide supporting documentation upon request.

2. I understand the preparer will rely on the information I supply and that the preparer is not responsible for verifying facts or auditing my records unless a separate engagement for representation or audit is agreed in writing.

3. I authorize the preparer to discuss tax matters, obtain necessary information and sign tax returns electronically where permitted, unless I have specified otherwise in writing.

4. I acknowledge I am responsible for the accuracy and completeness of all tax returns and for any penalties, interest or additional tax assessed by tax authorities as a result of incomplete or inaccurate information provided by me.

5. I certify that the taxpayer identification number provided above is correct and that I am not subject to backup withholding unless I have indicated otherwise to the preparer.

Sign Now