Tax Terms of Service

TAX TERMS OF SERVICE

Client Name:    Preparer Name:    Engagement Date:

1. Engagement and Scope

The Client engages the Preparer to provide tax preparation and related advisory services as set forth in this Agreement. Services include preparation of federal and state income tax returns and supporting schedules, review of client-provided tax information, electronic filing authorization where applicable, and limited tax advice directly related to the returns prepared. Services specifically excluded from this engagement include extended tax planning, representation in tax controversies except as separately agreed, bookkeeping, and payroll processing unless expressly included below.

2. Fees, Billing, and Payment

Fees are based on the complexity of work, time required, and the level of preparer personnel. The Client agrees to pay the Preparer's fees as billed. Estimated fee or retainer, if any, is set forth below.

3. Client Responsibilities

The Client is responsible for providing complete and accurate information necessary for preparation of returns, maintaining adequate records, and providing access to original records upon request. The Preparer will rely on information provided by the Client without independent verification unless specifically agreed otherwise.

4. Taxpayer Identification

Provide the taxpayer identification information below. Complete either the Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number section as applicable. The Client certifies the accuracy of the TIN provided and acknowledges responsibility for penalties resulting from incorrect TINs.

Individual / Sole Proprietor    C Corp    S Corp    Partnership

Trust / Estate    LLC    Other:

Social Security Number:    Employer Identification Number:

5. Electronic Filing, Signatures, and Third-Party Authorizations

The Client authorizes the Preparer to electronically file returns and to sign returns using an electronic signature, PIN, or other authorized method where permitted. The Client further authorizes the Preparer to obtain and verify tax information from third parties and to communicate with taxing authorities on the Client's behalf when necessary to prepare the returns or respond to routine inquiries.

Client consents to electronic filing and electronic signature for returns prepared under this engagement.

Client authorizes Preparer to obtain taxpayer information from third parties (financial institutions, payroll providers, brokers) as necessary to prepare returns.

6. Confidentiality and Data Security

The Preparer will maintain the confidentiality of Client tax information and will use reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect client data consistent with industry practices. Client acknowledges that transmission of information by electronic means carries inherent risk and agrees to employ reasonable safeguards when transmitting sensitive information.

7. Record Retention

The Preparer will retain copies of completed returns and limited engagement records for a period consistent with the Preparer's record retention policy. The primary responsibility for retaining original source documents and supporting records rests with the Client.

8. Limitation of Liability and Indemnification

The Preparer's liability for any claim arising out of this engagement shall be limited to direct damages up to the greater of the fees paid for the services giving rise to the claim or $5,000, except as otherwise prohibited by law. In no event shall the Preparer be liable for consequential, incidental, or punitive damages. Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Preparer from claims, liabilities, and expenses arising from inaccurate or incomplete information provided by the Client or from the Client's failure to follow Preparer advice.

9. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law

Any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be resolved by binding arbitration under the rules of the chosen arbitration provider, except where prohibited by law, and judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the state specified by the Preparer in the preparer identification field unless otherwise agreed in writing.

10. Termination

Either party may terminate this engagement upon written notice. Client will remain obligated to pay for services performed and costs incurred through the date of termination. If the engagement is terminated before completion of services, the Preparer may retain copies of the Client's records as necessary to satisfy outstanding obligations.

11. Amendments; Entire Agreement

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Client and the Preparer regarding the engagement and supersedes prior communications. Any amendment must be in writing and signed by both parties.

12. Certification and Perjury Statement

By signing below, the Client certifies, under penalties of perjury, the following:

1. I have provided all information necessary for accurate preparation of the tax returns and I affirm that to the best of my knowledge and belief the information provided is true, correct, and complete.
2. I acknowledge my responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided and for the timely filing and payment of any tax liabilities disclosed on the returns prepared under this engagement.
3. I authorize the Preparer to electronically file my tax returns and to use an electronic signature or PIN on my behalf where permitted.
4. I authorize the Preparer to disclose confidential tax return information to third parties solely as necessary to perform the services described herein, and to obtain relevant third-party information and records.
5. I understand that the Preparer may rely on information provided and that review or verification of supporting documentation is the Client's responsibility unless otherwise agreed.
6. I agree to pay the Preparer's fees and understand that the Preparer may apply reasonable collection procedures for past-due accounts.

By checking the box and signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and accept the terms and conditions set forth in this Tax Terms of Service agreement.

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