Tax consultants send quotes before taking on a new client, a new entity, a multi-year catch-up, or any engagement involving IRS or state correspondence. Clients usually compare your fee against national chains, other local preparers, and last year's invoice. A clear written quote helps explain why a self-employed or multi-state return costs more than a basic one.
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.
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A client asking for one year's return may assume prior-year cleanup or amendments are included. List each year and form.
The quote is based on the information given. State what you assumed, such as one Schedule C, no rental properties, and one state, so additions are priced fairly.
Late or incomplete documents are the main cause of delays and overruns. Set a deadline for the organizer, 1099s, K-1s, and books.
A quote assuming reconciled books will be wrong if you receive raw bank statements. Say what happens if cleanup is needed.
Clients often assume the fee covers anything that happens after filing. Say that representation is separate and how it will be billed.
Some quotes include a planning call, while others do not. State the number of hours or meetings so expectations are clear.
Fees change in peak season, and extension requests or late documents may affect your capacity. A set expiry date avoids disputes.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Individual return (Form 1040, standard deductions, W-2 income) | flat fee | $150-400 |
| Self-employed return (1040 with Schedule C) | flat fee | $350-900 |
| Small business return (1065, 1120-S, or 1120) | flat fee | $800-2,500 |
| Additional state return | flat fee | $50-200 |
| Tax planning and advisory | per hour | $125-300 |
| IRS or state notice response | per hour | $125-275 |
| Amended return (1040-X) | flat fee | $150-500 |
| Quarterly estimated tax calculation | per quarter | $75-250 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Asking for the prior-year return and a list of changes is the quickest way to get a reliable price. It shows the forms involved and likely issues such as carryovers and depreciation schedules.
Clients prefer a fixed number. Add that work beyond the described scope, such as extra Forms 1099 or unexpected state filings, will be billed at your hourly rate with prior notice.
A package of quarterly estimates, a mid-year planning meeting, and the return gives clients a predictable monthly cost and gives you steady revenue outside filing season.
For multiple unfiled years, price each year separately and start with the most recent. The client sees progress, and you limit exposure if documents are missing.
Give a range, not a firm price. State that the final fee depends on the forms and records received, and confirm the number once you have reviewed the prior return or the organizer.
Yes. Many consultants charge for a first meeting, especially for planning or notice problems, and credit the fee toward the engagement if the client signs. Others offer a short free call to scope the work.
Send a revised quote or change notice before doing the extra work. Referencing the assumptions in the original quote makes it easier for the client to see what changed.
Use the Tax Consultant invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Tax Consultant invoice template