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How Your Tax Preparation Business Can Maximize Its Social Media Presence

It’s no secret that LinkedIn can be a valuable networking tool for tax professionals. It allows you to highlight your credentials, share industry updates, and connect with potential clients or referral partners. But if your digital marketing strategy begins and ends with your LinkedIn profile, you’re leaving opportunities untapped.

Today’s clients don’t just want to know where you went to school or how long you’ve been doing taxes—they want to feel confident that you’re organized, accessible, and up-to-date on the latest IRS changes. They’re forming impressions based on your website, your reviews, and how visible you are when they search for “professional tax preparation near me.”

If you want to grow a modern, client-focused tax business, you need more than a professional profile—you need a strong, multi-platform presence built around tax preparation SEO and strategic digital engagement. Here’s how to do it.

Your Website Is Still Your Digital Home Base

Your website is where clients decide whether to work with you. It should clearly show who you help, what services you offer, and how to get in touch. This is your chance to take control of your brand and message in a way that LinkedIn alone can’t provide.

Make sure your site includes:

  • A dedicated services page with tax preparation offerings (e.g., individual tax filing, small business tax returns, IRS correspondence help, or self-employed tax services)
  • A clear call to action, like a contact form or calendar to book a free consultation
  • Search engine optimization, using keywords like “professional tax preparer,” “file taxes online with expert help,” or “local tax services for small businesses”

Add an FAQ page to answer common client questions about filing deadlines, deductions, or what documents to bring to a tax appointment. These pages improve usability and search visibility—two essentials for standing out in a competitive local market.

Visibility Beyond the Platform: SEO + Email = Smart Marketing

LinkedIn is great for maintaining your professional identity, but it has limitations. Its reach is tied to your existing network, and its algorithm often favors viral content over professional updates.

To grow beyond your current circle, prioritize local SEO for tax preparation services. Make sure your website includes location-specific keywords like “tax preparer in Salt Lake City” or “help with tax returns in Las Vegas.” Write blog posts that address specific, searchable tax questions, such as:

  • “How to File Taxes as a Freelancer in Utah”
  • “What Documents Do I Need to Prepare for My Tax Appointment?”
  • “Do I Qualify for the Home Office Deduction in 2025?”

A well-optimized blog not only showcases your expertise—it helps you rank on Google when clients are actively searching for answers.

Pair this with a monthly email newsletter that offers timely tax tips, deadline reminders, and updates on IRS changes. It’s a great way to stay top-of-mind, especially during the off-season.

The Power of Social Proof

When it comes to building trust, online reviews are just as powerful as your professional credentials. A strong testimonial that says, “This tax preparer helped me get the biggest refund I’ve ever had” or “They caught errors in my previous return and saved me money” can be more persuasive than any ad.

Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, your website, or local directories. Ask them to mention specific results—such as how quickly you responded, how easy the process was, or how you handled IRS notices.

Positive reviews help boost tax preparation SEO, improve your local search rankings, and add critical trust signals for first-time visitors.

Use Video to Stand Out and Educate

Want to explain your services or answer tax questions in a more dynamic way? Short videos and webinars are a great way to educate and engage.

Try recording a quick video where you:

  • Walk through your tax preparation process
  • Explain the difference between standard and itemized deductions
  • Offer last-minute tax tips in March or April

Video content increases time spent on your site (which helps with SEO) and gives you reusable content to share via email or social media. It also makes your business feel more personal—clients want to know the human behind the calculator.

Don’t Ignore Your Local Presence

Even in a digital-first world, local visibility is critical for tax professionals. Many clients prefer to work with someone who knows their state’s tax laws or who they can meet in person if needed.

Update your Google Business Profile with your hours, services, and service areas. Use your city or region throughout your website’s content, and join local business directories. These steps make it easier for nearby clients to find you when they search for phrases like “best tax preparer near me” or “help with taxes locally.”

Let Your Systems Speak for You

Behind-the-scenes tools like scheduling software, secure file portals, and appointment reminders don’t just make your life easier—they improve the client experience and your reputation.

Clients want to know their data is safe, their appointments won’t be forgotten, and their returns will be filed on time. Even if these tools aren’t visible upfront, they communicate professionalism, reliability, and trust.

Mention the technology you use on your website or in your onboarding materials. It reassures clients that you’re running a modern, organized tax practice.

Visibility Is About Consistency, Not Complexity

You don’t have to be everywhere. But you do need to show up strategically and consistently.

Start with your website and build out from there:

  • Choose one or two platforms (like LinkedIn and Google) to focus on
  • Post tax tips, seasonal reminders, or short videos
  • Collect a few strong reviews and highlight them
  • Make sure your contact and booking process is smooth

According to the Thomson Reuters 2024 State of Tax Professionals Report, clients expect more than just tax filing. They want strategic advice, clear communication, and an expert who is proactive—not reactive. That means your online presence should show not just what you do, but how well you do it.

LinkedIn Is Just the Beginning

A polished LinkedIn profile is a great start—but it’s not enough. To grow a thriving tax preparation business, you need visibility that extends beyond one platform.

Take it one step at a time. Update your site with relevant keywords, launch a blog post answering common client questions, or record a short video to walk clients through your process. Each action builds trust, authority, and discoverability.

Want help growing your tax business beyond LinkedIn? Call 435-344-2060 or schedule a time to speak with the Universal Accounting Center team. We’ll show you how to use modern marketing and professional tax preparation training to position yourself as the expert clients are looking for.

tax software for tax preparers

Best Tax Software for Tax Preparers in 2025: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

For professional tax preparers, the right tax software isn’t just a convenience; it’s the backbone of their practice. In 2025, with tax laws constantly evolving and client demands growing, having robust, efficient, and reliable tax software for tax preparers is more crucial than ever. This guide will walk you through the top contenders, highlighting their features, benefits, and what truly sets them apart.

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Why Professional Tax Software Matters More Than Ever

Gone are the days of manual calculations and endless paper trails. Modern tax preparation demands speed, accuracy, and the ability to handle diverse client situations. Professional tax software offers:

  • Efficiency: Automates calculations, forms, and e-filing, drastically reducing preparation time.
  • Accuracy: Built-in diagnostics and error checks minimize mistakes that could lead to audits or penalties.
  • Compliance: Stays updated with the latest federal and state tax laws, ensuring your clients’ returns are always compliant.
  • Client Management: Features like client portals, secure data exchange, and historical data access streamline client communication and record-keeping.
  • Scalability: Allows you to handle a growing client base without compromising on quality or turnaround time.

Key Features to Look for in Professional Tax Software

When evaluating professional tax software, consider these essential features:

  1. Comprehensive Form Library: Does it cover all federal and state forms you need, including those for individuals (1040), businesses (1120, 1120-S, 1065), and specialized filings (990, 706, 709)?
  2. Data Import Capabilities: Can it easily import data from accounting software (like QuickBooks or Xero), prior-year returns, W-2s, and other financial documents? This saves immense data entry time.
  3. E-filing and Status Tracking: Seamless electronic filing for federal and state returns, along with real-time status updates, is non-negotiable.
  4. Diagnostic Tools and Error Checks: Robust systems that identify potential errors, missing information, and audit flags before submission.
  5. Client Portal and Communication Tools: Secure portals for clients to upload documents, review returns, and sign electronically. Integrated communication features enhance client experience.
  6. Multi-Entity and Multi-State Support: Essential for preparers handling diverse clients, from sole proprietors to corporations and those with income from multiple states.
  7. Reporting and Analytics: Customizable reports on your practice’s performance, client data, and profitability.
  8. Security and Compliance: Top-tier data encryption, secure storage, and adherence to IRS and state security guidelines.
  9. Customer Support: Accessible and knowledgeable support is critical, especially during peak tax season.
  10. Integration: Does it integrate with other tools you use, such as practice management software, payroll systems, or accounting platforms?

Top Tax Software for Tax Preparers in 2025: A Comparison

Let’s dive into some of the leading tax software for tax preparers you should consider for 2025:

1. Intuit Lacerte Tax

Best For: Tax professionals handling complex individual and business returns, particularly those with intricate diagnostic needs.

Why it stands out: Lacerte is known for its extensive form coverage (over 5,700 forms), powerful diagnostics (25,000+ error checks), and robust data import capabilities. It’s a desktop-based solution with hosting options, offering precision input and excellent integration with QuickBooks Desktop. If you’re dealing with sophisticated tax situations, Lacerte is a strong contender.

Considerations: It can be pricey, and while it offers hosting, its core is desktop-based, which might not suit those looking for a purely cloud-native solution.

2. Intuit ProConnect Tax

Best For: Firms looking for a cloud-based solution that handles complex returns and offers strong integration with QuickBooks Online Accountant.

Why it stands out: ProConnect Tax is Intuit’s cloud-based offering for professionals. It boasts comprehensive form coverage, direct access to client IRS transcripts, and the ability to import prior-year 1040s to create new returns quickly. Its cloud nature allows for anytime, anywhere access and enterprise-level security. It also supports eSignature and integrates well with Intuit Tax Advisor.

Considerations: While cloud-based, it might still have a learning curve for those new to Intuit’s professional tax ecosystem.

3. Drake Tax

Best For: High-volume tax practices seeking an exceptionally efficient interface and comprehensive capabilities.

Why it stands out: Drake Tax is highly regarded for its user-friendly interface designed for speed and efficiency. It offers comprehensive tax preparation capabilities with a minimal learning curve, making it ideal for firms processing a large number of returns. It also excels in client management and multi-state filing.

Considerations: Some users might find its interface a bit less modern than other cloud-native options, though its functionality is top-notch.

4. Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS

Best For: Established firms needing a comprehensive, integrated suite for tax preparation, accounting, and practice management.

Why it stands out: UltraTax CS is part of the Thomson Reuters CS Professional Suite, offering a truly integrated solution for tax, accounting, and firm management. It provides advanced diagnostics, robust reporting, and a high degree of customization. Its ability to create instant tax preparation checklists based on prior-year entries is a valuable time-saver.

Considerations: This is a premium solution with a higher price point, generally catering to larger or more established practices.

5. Wolters Kluwer CCH ProSystem fx Tax

Best For: Large accounting firms and enterprises requiring highly specialized and scalable tax solutions.

Why it stands out: CCH ProSystem fx Tax is another industry giant, offering extensive form coverage, powerful diagnostics, and deep integration with other CCH products. It’s built for scalability and complex scenarios, making it a favorite among larger firms with diverse client needs.

Considerations: Like UltraTax CS, it comes with a significant investment and is typically overkill for solo practitioners or small firms.

Beyond the Software: Becoming a Certified Tax Preparer

Choosing the right software is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly excel as a tax preparer, continuous learning and proper credentials are vital.

Tax Preparer Certification: While a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) is the minimum requirement to file returns on behalf of clients, pursuing additional certifications significantly boosts your credibility and expands your service offerings.

  • Enrolled Agent (EA): Licensed by the IRS, EAs have unlimited representation rights before the IRS, meaning they can represent any taxpayer for any tax matter. This requires passing a three-part exam and ongoing continuing education.
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA): CPAs are state-licensed and have a broader scope of practice beyond just tax, including auditing and financial consulting. Becoming a CPA requires extensive education, passing the Uniform CPA Exam, and meeting work experience requirements.
  • Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP): Offered by the Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation (ACAT), the ATP designation signifies a strong understanding of individual and small business tax preparation.

Tax Preparer Course: Many institutions, like the Universal Accounting School, offer comprehensive tax preparer course programs that cover federal income tax law, deductions, credits, various tax forms, and ethical responsibilities. These courses are invaluable for aspiring tax preparers and for existing professionals looking to stay updated or prepare for certification exams. Look for courses that offer hands-on practice, cover current tax laws, and provide guidance on professional ethics.

Conclusion

The landscape of tax preparation is always changing, and having the best tax software for tax preparers is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or part of a large firm, the right software can significantly enhance your efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction.

Before making your final decision, take advantage of free trials, compare features against your specific client needs, and consider your budget. Remember that the best software is the one that empowers you to serve your clients effectively and stay ahead in the dynamic world of taxation. Combine powerful software with ongoing professional development and certifications, and you’ll be well-equipped for a successful tax season in 2025 and beyond.

outsourced bookkeeping services

What to Expect When You Start Using Outsourced Bookkeeping Services

So, you’ve decided to make the smart move and explore outsourced bookkeeping services. Whether you’re a small business owner swamped with receipts or a growing enterprise looking to streamline operations, this decision can be a game-changer. But what exactly happens when you hand over your financial reins? Let’s break down what you can expect, so you’re prepared for a smooth transition and all the benefits that come with it.

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The Initial Setup: Getting to Know Each Other (and Your Books!)

The first few weeks with your outsourced bookkeeping service are all about setting the foundation. Think of it as a getting-to-know-you phase, but for your finances.

  1. Discovery Call & Needs Assessment: This is where it all begins. Your chosen service provider will want to understand your business inside and out. They’ll ask about your industry, current accounting software (if any), transaction volume, specific financial pain points, and what your goals are for outsourcing. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions too – about their experience, security protocols, and communication style.
  2. Data Gathering & Access: You’ll need to provide access to your financial data. This typically involves:
    • Bank and Credit Card Statements: Most services will use secure, read-only connections to your bank accounts for automatic transaction feeds. This is super efficient!
    • Receipts and Invoices: They’ll guide you on how to best share these. This could be through a cloud-based document sharing platform (like Dropbox or Google Drive), a dedicated client portal, or even by linking to expense tracking apps you already use (like Expensify or Receipt Bank).
    • Previous Financial Records: If you have historical data in QuickBooks, Xero, or another accounting software, they’ll need access to that to ensure continuity.
  3. Software Integration & Setup: If you’re not already using a cloud-based accounting system, your outsourced bookkeeper will likely recommend one and help you set it up. Popular choices include QuickBooks Online, Xero, and FreshBooks. They’ll configure your chart of accounts, link bank feeds, and ensure everything is categorized correctly from the get-go.
  4. Defining Communication Channels: How will you talk? Establish regular check-ins, whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly calls. Discuss preferred communication methods (email, phone, messaging apps) and turnaround times for questions or urgent requests. Clear communication is key to a successful partnership.

The Ongoing Partnership: What Happens Day-to-Day

Once the initial setup is complete, your outsourced bookkeeping service will slide into a regular rhythm of managing your financial transactions.

  1. Transaction Categorization and Reconciliation: This is the core of bookkeeping. Your bookkeeper will regularly categorize every transaction from your bank and credit card feeds. They’ll match these transactions against receipts and invoices, ensuring everything is correctly recorded. They’ll also reconcile your bank and credit card statements at the end of each period, making sure every dollar is accounted for.
  2. Accounts Payable & Receivable (Optional): Depending on your agreement, your bookkeeper might also handle:
    • Accounts Payable: Managing bills, scheduling payments, and ensuring you don’t miss due dates.
    • Accounts Receivable: Sending invoices, tracking payments, and following up on overdue accounts.
  3. Payroll Support (Optional): While many outsourced bookkeepers don’t directly run payroll, they often work hand-in-hand with your payroll provider, ensuring payroll expenses are correctly recorded in your books.
  4. Regular Financial Reports: This is where you really start to see the value! You can expect to receive regular financial reports, usually monthly or quarterly. These reports include:
    • Profit & Loss Statement (Income Statement): Shows your revenue, expenses, and net profit (or loss) over a period.
    • Balance Sheet: A snapshot of your assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity at a specific point in time.
    • Cash Flow Statement: Tracks the movement of cash in and out of your business. These reports provide critical insights into your business’s health and performance.
  5. Ongoing Communication & Problem Solving: Your bookkeeper will be your go-to person for financial questions. They’ll flag discrepancies, ask for clarification on unusual transactions, and proactively identify potential issues. Don’t be surprised if they reach out periodically to ask about specific expenses or revenue streams.

Benefits You’ll Experience

Once you’ve settled into the rhythm of having professional outsourced bookkeeping support, you’ll start to realize the immense benefits:

  • Time Savings: This is probably the biggest one! No more late nights wrestling with spreadsheets or piles of receipts. You can now dedicate that time to growing your business, serving clients, or even just enjoying a better work-life balance.
  • Accuracy & Compliance: Professional bookkeepers are experts. They know the ins and outs of accounting principles and tax regulations, significantly reducing the risk of errors and ensuring you stay compliant. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially during tax season.
  • Cost Savings: While there’s a fee for the service, it’s often more cost-effective than hiring a full-time, in-house bookkeeper (considering salary, benefits, office space, etc.). You pay for exactly what you need.
  • Improved Financial Insights: With clear, up-to-date financial reports, you’ll gain a much better understanding of your business’s performance. This empowers you to make smarter, data-driven decisions.
  • Scalability: As your business grows, your outsourced bookkeeping service can easily scale with you, handling increased transaction volumes without you needing to hire more staff.
  • Reduced Stress: Knowing your finances are in expert hands frees you from one of the most common sources of stress for business owners.

Considering an Online Bookkeeping Course?

For some, understanding the basics of bookkeeping, even when outsourcing, can be empowering. If you’re looking to gain foundational knowledge or even pursue a career in the field, an online bookkeeping course can be an excellent investment. Programs like those offered by the Universal Accounting School provide comprehensive training in financial principles, accounting software, and best practices. This knowledge can help you better understand the reports your outsourced bookkeeper provides and ask more informed questions, strengthening your partnership.

Conclusion

Starting with outsourced bookkeeping services is a strategic move that can transform your business operations. While the initial setup requires some time and information sharing, the ongoing benefits of accuracy, efficiency, and expert financial insights are well worth it. By knowing what to expect, you can ensure a seamless transition and unlock the true potential of having a dedicated financial partner.