I’ve been working doing data entry for regular 1040 tax clients for a little over a year now. Going into this new season, my firm is going to have me help with clients with phone appointments to review their taxes. What are the best practices to do that? I’ve read online that some of you guys can take only 10-15 minutes to review a 1040 with them. Do you follow any structure? Thank you!
Tax Pros, how do I review returns with a 1040 client? Any tips?
byu/Christion_ intax
Posted by Christion_
5 Comments
I review it line by line and skip things that don’t pertain to the client. When there is a line on the 1040 that has been pulled from another form or schedule, I open that and show them how that flowed to the return. Usually 10-15 minutes is how long this takes if they don’t have a ton of questions.
I personally don’t go line by line unless they request it.
I give them an overall summary of what happened by reviewing their big topics and what changed this year. I.e. since we made estimated payments this year, you didn’t owe much at tax time
Compare this year vs last year and review any significant differences. Also discuss whether they expect any changes in their financial situation in 2026.
When reviewing with clients, I usually just go over the two year comparison and speak on the notable differences year over year.
Definitely make a point to provide them a copy of what you’re talking to them about, if at all possible; that’s *far* easier for them to follow along with than if you’re just spouting off numbers.