Mark Gallegos, a Partner at Porte Brown and seasoned CPA, shares invaluable strategies for navigating the chaos of tax season. He discusses essential tips for managing workflow and deadlines, as well as fostering collaboration among staff. Mark emphasizes the importance of staying educated and connected to resources like AICPA for support. He also touches on the challenges of IRS correspondence and the complexities of new regulations, all while advocating for calm and effective communication to ensure client satisfaction.
Firms must prioritize training and supporting newer staff members to better manage tax season pressures and ensure effective communication with clients.
Practitioners should stay informed about recent regulatory changes like the Corporate Transparency Act to provide timely guidance to clients and mitigate anxiety associated with compliance deadlines.
Deep dives
Navigating Tax Season Challenges
Tax season presents significant challenges for practitioners, particularly in gathering client data and maintaining efficient workflows. A focus on training newer staff members has been highlighted as crucial for supporting an inexperienced workforce, ensuring they feel equipped to manage the pressure. Communication with clients is essential, especially when dealing with IRS correspondence, as delays in processing can lead to frustration for both clients and firms. Establishing protocols like obtaining power of attorney can facilitate smoother interactions with the IRS and improve overall client management.
Adapting to Changing Regulatory Requirements
Recent regulatory changes, such as the Corporate Transparency Act, impose additional pressure on tax practitioners as they navigate evolving deadlines and compliance requirements. Firms are encouraged to educate themselves about these regulations to effectively advise clients, while acknowledging that many are simply overwhelmed by the shifting landscape. The need for proactive communication with clients about compliance deadlines is emphasized, fostering a culture where clients feel motivated to act promptly rather than procrastinate. By managing expectations and offering guidance, practitioners can help reduce client anxiety associated with looming deadlines.
Fostering Team Well-being and Collaboration
Promoting a positive work environment is essential during the busy tax season, with initiatives such as providing team support and prioritizing employee well-being implemented by firms. Frequent check-ins and mentorship programs ensure that staff feel supported while managing stress and workloads, creating a collaborative atmosphere. Engaging in team-building activities, like casual meals or outings, allows staff to unwind and strengthens relationships within the firm. Streamlining workflows and encouraging early submission of client materials have proven beneficial, helping teams stay organized and ahead of deadlines, ultimately contributing to a more manageable work environment.
On this episode, Mark Gallegos, CPA, MST, Partner — Porte Brown, discusses strategies for thriving during tax season. Mark highlights his current challenges but reiterates the importance of staying educated and focused in order to foster a spirit of collaboration and support to get through busy season.
What you’ll learn from this episode:
Practical tips on supporting staff during busy season
How to stay focused and avoid getting distracted with all the noise
The importance of providing support and guidance to your colleagues
Transforming Your Business Model: Talent — Tap into the Private Company Practice Section (PCPS) toolkit for resources around attracting, retaining and developing talent to ensure the growth of the profession and position your firm for success.
Keep your finger on the pulse of the dynamic and evolving tax landscape with insights from tax thought leaders in the AICPA Tax Section. The Tax Section Odyssey podcast includes a digest of tax developments, trending issues and practice management tips that you need to be aware of to elevate your professional development and your firm practices.
This resource is part of the robust tax resource library available from the AICPA Tax Section. The Tax Section is your go-to home base for staying up to date on the latest tax developments and providing the edge you need for upskilling your professional development. If you’re not already a member, consider joining this prestigious community of your tax peers. You’ll get free CPE, access to rich technical content such as our Annual Tax Compliance Kit, a weekly member newsletter and a digital subscription to The Tax Adviser.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode