Enrolled agents send quotes before taking on a new client, before a representation matter, and when a prospective client needs catch-up filings for several years. Clients usually compare your price with a large chain preparer, a CPA, or a software subscription, so the quote must show what is included.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Prevents confusion when a client assumes prior years or amended returns are part of the price.
Schedule C, E, K-1s, and multi-state returns change the workload, so name what is covered and what costs extra.
Late or incomplete documents are the main cause of overruns, so tie your price to receiving organized records.
State whether books are expected to be reconciled and the hourly rate for cleanup if they are not.
Specify whether you are handling a single notice, an audit, or a full collections case, and that Form 2848 is required.
Clarify whether post-filing notices and audits are included or billed separately.
Sets expectations on when work starts and how long the price holds.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Individual 1040 with standard deductions (W-2, interest) | flat fee | $150-350 |
| Individual 1040 with itemized deductions and Schedule C or rental | flat fee | $400-900 |
| Small business return (1120-S or 1065) with K-1s | flat fee | $900-2,500 |
| IRS notice response or penalty abatement request | flat fee | $250-750 |
| Audit or collections representation (Form 2848) | per hour | $150-350 |
| Tax planning or advisory session | per hour | $125-300 |
| Prior-year or delinquent return | per return | $300-1,000 |
| Small business tax retainer | per month | $150-600 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Build a fee schedule by form and complexity and reuse it. Clients can see why a return with rental properties costs more than a W-2 return.
For delinquent filings or notice work, give a fee for the known scope and an hourly rate for additional work once you review transcripts.
Ask for last year's return or an IRS account transcript. A quick review shows complexity and reveals problems that affect your price.
Present a return-only option and a year-round option with planning calls and estimated payment calculations so clients can choose a level of service.
If the client signs your engagement letter with the quoted fee, it becomes the agreed price for that scope. State the expiration date and that changes in scope, such as additional forms, can change the fee.
Many EAs offer a short free call to assess fit, then charge for in-depth review or transcript analysis. A paid consultation that is credited toward the engagement is a common compromise.
Use an hourly rate with an upfront retainer, or a flat fee for a defined stage such as the initial response. Do not promise a result and avoid quoting a fee tied to the amount of tax reduced.
You can give a starting range based on the client's description, but mark it as an estimate and confirm the final fee after reviewing the return, prior filings, and records.
Use the Enrolled Agent invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Enrolled Agent invoice template