What to expect from a tax consultation

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Appointments

By Accounting Services · Published September 30, 2026

A consultation gives you a place to explain your filing needs before deciding how to proceed. For an ASI inquiry, the first step is your name, phone number and email. Business details and notes are optional, so you can start even if you are still organizing records.

Choose the questions that matter most

Think about what prompted you to seek help. Perhaps you started a business, changed preparers, have an unfinished prior year or want to coordinate business and personal returns. Describe the situation in plain language. You do not need to know the right form number to explain what happened.

Identify the years and places involved

Make a note of the filing years and the states where you lived, worked or operated your business. Include dates of major changes if you know them. This gives the preparer a starting point for questions; it does not determine whether a particular return is required. ASI accepts preparation inquiries from all 50 states and confirms the engagement scope directly.

Use the consultation to clarify the process

Ask what is included, what information is still needed and how the team will communicate with you. Distinguish an appointment request from a confirmed meeting: ASI follows up to agree on arrangements. Discuss timing directly, especially if you have a notice or an approaching filing date.

Save documents for the agreed transfer method

The initial inquiry is for contact information and brief context. Keep tax identification numbers, financial account details and tax documents out of that form. Ask the team how to provide them securely once the next steps are clear.

Before you finish the conversation, write down who is doing what next: which records you will gather, which questions remain open and when you expect to reconnect. The IRS also recommends considering whether your preparer will be available after filing. Request a consultation when you are ready to discuss your situation.

Source and further reading

IRS: How to choose a tax return preparer. General preparation information; your engagement and filing requirements depend on your circumstances.

What happens next

Tell ASI what you need help with. Start with your contact information and add optional context.