Robert G. Finn, CPA, CGMA

I typically have a brief 10 to 15 minute telephone call with the prospective client where the scope of services necessary can be defined, an estimate of time required to complete the services, and the prospective client's timeframe to completion determined. I then review the prospective client's prior year tax returns, and inquire about their audit history (if any), and the reasons for seeking a new tax professional. I then give the prospective client a fee estimate, and if it is acceptable to them, I prepare an engagement letter describing the matters in the first sentence above and send it electronically with a client tax organizer via email to the client. The client signs the engagement letter, and returns it along with the completed tax organizer, and their tax information forms received from third parties. Drafts of the completed income tax returns are emailed to the client upon completion, along with federal and state eFile authorization forms. After the client has signed and returned the eFile authorizations, their income tax returns are electronically filed with the IRS and applicable state taxing authorities. Paper copies of the client's tax returns, an invoice for services provided, and any original paper documentation provided by the client is returned to the client via U.S. Mail. I am available by email or telephone throughout the year free of charge, to answer basic tax questions that may arise. If a client's situation requires tax research, representation before a taxing authority, or any service that will require more than 15 minutes of professional time, then a separate engagement letter is prepared and payment of a retainer may be required.   

Bachelors Degree in Accounting from Widener University. Licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in PA and NJ. I have worked with tax clients of every size and complexity during my 30 years in public accounting. I retired  from a national accounting firm as a partner and now work with a relatively small, select group of clients which is where I am happiest.

Preparation and eFiling of a basic federal income tax return with W-2 and or retirement plan income, interest, dividends, capital gains and losses, and itemized deductions and preparation and eFiling of resident state income tax return is a flat fee of $275. Tax returns with self-employment income or rental income are priced based on the time involved at my standard hourly rate of $200/hr.

I was hired by a regional CPA firm in Paoli, Pennsylvania right after graduation from Widener University. I passed the CPA exam my first year working for the firm, and was drawn to taxation as my specialty. I was promoted to Manager after three years, Senior Manager after five years, and made partner at seven years. Since then, I have been a partner in larger firms but found the lack of client contact made the work less interesting. I decided to retire from Baker Tilly LLP a couple of years ago and go back to my roots, providing tax planning and compliance services to individuals and small businesses.

I have worked with clients of nearly every size and type. From individuals with simple personal tax situations, to businesses formed as partnerships, limited liability companies, S corporations, and C corporations, and business owners and other high income/high net worth individuals with extremely complex tax situations. I also provide tax audit representation and tax liability resolution services, and retirement planning services.  

I recently identified errors in a prior year federal income tax return of a new client that was prepared incorrectly by a well known CPA firm. I prepared an amended return, and the client received a significant refund from the IRS.

Another new client received incorrect advice from his investment advisor regarding the timing of his Required Minimum IRA Distribution. I successfully requested and received a waiver from the 50% penalty excise tax that could have been imposed by the IRS and saved my client thousands of dollars.    

Make sure the person or firm has been in business for a reasonable amount of time, has the credentials they put as letters behind their name(s), has experience with similar tax clients, and has the resources to properly complete and eFile your tax returns within the requested or required period of time. Each state maintains a public database where the status and disciplinary history of a Certified Public Accountant's license can be verified. I strongly encourage persons who are evaluating a potential tax professional to look up the details of his or her professional license(s).     

Be sure to ask about the service provider's formal education, professional licenses and/or designations, and relevant experience specific to your tax situation. Ask them how long will it take to prepare your tax returns, and if they will be filed before the original due date, or whether an extension of time to file the tax return(s) will be necessary. Remember, there is no extension of time to pay a tax liability...all individual taxes are due by April 15. If you have been audited in the past, or have outstanding liabilities with IRS or a state taxing authority, be sure to mention this during your conversation. Finally, ask the person how much will they charge you and then have them put it in writing.