The 2026 filing season opens soon. Preparation determines success. Tax professionals who complete setup tasks before the first return avoid delays, reduce errors, and serve clients efficiently.
This checklist covers the essential steps every tax practice should complete before accepting the first client of the season.
1. Update and Test Your Tax Software
Software updates are non-negotiable. Tax law changes annually. Your software must reflect current forms, calculations, and e-filing requirements.
Action items:
- Download and install all software updates
- Verify your license is active for the 2026 season
- Run test calculations using sample returns
- Confirm e-filing transmission capabilities
- Check that all state modules are installed and updated
If you're evaluating new software options, TIG Tax Pros offers tax software packages designed for practices of all sizes. The right software reduces processing time and minimizes rejection rates.
Test your software with a dummy return before the season starts. Identify issues now, not when a client is waiting.
2. Verify Your ERO Status and EFIN
Your Electronic Return Originator (ERO) status must be active. The IRS requires annual renewal of your e-file application. Expired credentials mean you cannot transmit returns.
Action items:
- Log into your IRS e-Services account
- Verify your EFIN is active for tax year 2025 returns
- Update any contact information or responsible official details
- Confirm all authorized users are listed correctly
- Check that your PTIN is current
New to the industry or operating without your own EFIN? ERO services through a service bureau allow you to e-file under an established provider's credentials. This option works well for new preparers or those who want to avoid the EFIN application process.
3. Review Security Protocols
The IRS requires tax professionals to maintain a written information security plan. Data breaches expose your practice to liability and destroy client trust.
Action items:
- Review and update your Written Information Security Plan (WISP)
- Change all system passwords
- Enable multi-factor authentication on all accounts
- Update antivirus and anti-malware software
- Test backup systems and verify data recovery procedures
- Shred or securely dispose of prior-year documents past retention requirements
Identity theft targeting tax professionals increased significantly in recent years. Protecting client data protects your business. Review our guide on identity theft protection for tax professionals for detailed security measures.
4. Train Your Staff
Every team member needs current knowledge. Tax law changes, software updates, and office procedures require annual review.
Action items:
- Schedule software training sessions
- Review new tax law provisions affecting 2025 returns
- Update staff on office procedures and client intake processes
- Assign continuing education courses to preparers
- Review IRS Circular 230 ethical obligations
- Document training completion for compliance records
Staff who understand the software reduce errors. Staff who understand current law serve clients better. Training before the rush prevents costly mistakes during peak season.
For preparers needing certification updates, online tax courses provide flexible scheduling that works around busy season preparation.
5. Conduct Client Outreach
Clients need reminders. Proactive communication reduces last-minute scrambles and keeps your schedule manageable.
Action items:
- Send appointment reminder emails or letters
- Provide document checklists to clients
- Notify clients of any fee changes
- Inform clients of new information requirements (1099-K threshold changes, cryptocurrency reporting)
- Update your client intake forms
- Set up online scheduling if available
Remind clients that employers must send W-2 forms by January 31, 2026. Banks and investment firms have until mid-February for 1099 forms. Early outreach sets expectations and reduces client frustration.
Create a standardized document checklist covering:
- W-2s from all employers
- 1099 forms (INT, DIV, B, NEC, MISC, K)
- 1095 health insurance forms
- Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098)
- Education expense forms (Form 1098-T)
- Charitable donation receipts
- Property tax statements
- Prior-year return copy
6. Organize Your Physical and Digital Workspace
A cluttered workspace slows production. Organization saves time when processing hundreds of returns.
Action items:
- Clean and organize your physical office
- Set up client file folders (physical or digital)
- Organize your digital file structure
- Clear out old emails and digital clutter
- Test all office equipment (printers, scanners, copiers)
- Stock printer supplies (toner, paper)
Scanners fail at the worst times. Printers run out of toner during appointments. Check equipment now. Order supplies before demand creates shipping delays.
7. Review Fee Structures
Your fees should reflect your expertise and market conditions. Annual review ensures profitability.
Action items:
- Analyze last season's profitability by return type
- Research competitor pricing in your market
- Adjust fees to reflect increased complexity or costs
- Update fee schedules in your software
- Prepare fee disclosure documents for clients
Consider offering bank products for clients who want refund advances or refund transfers. These products add convenience for clients and often generate additional revenue for your practice.
8. Check Your Marketing Materials
Clients research online before choosing a preparer. Your digital presence needs attention.
Action items:
- Update your website with current year information
- Verify your Google Business Profile is accurate
- Post on social media about filing season readiness
- Order business cards or promotional materials if needed
- Update any print advertising
For practice growth strategies, review quick tips to grow your tax business. Small marketing improvements yield significant client acquisition over time.
9. Establish a Filing Season Schedule
Without structure, filing season overwhelms. Set boundaries before the rush begins.
Action items:
- Set office hours for filing season
- Block time for administrative tasks
- Schedule staff coverage for extended hours
- Plan for estimated tax payment deadlines (April 15, June 15, September 15)
- Calendar extension deadlines
- Build in breaks to prevent burnout
The April 15 deadline creates natural pressure. Planning your schedule in advance prevents the chaos that leads to errors and missed deadlines.
10. Complete a Test E-File Submission
Before accepting client returns, verify your e-filing connection works. A test submission confirms your setup is complete.
Action items:
- Create a test return using your software's test mode
- Transmit to verify connection to IRS and state systems
- Confirm acknowledgment receipt
- Resolve any transmission errors
- Document successful test for your records
Most tax software includes a test transmission feature. Use it. Discovering transmission problems with a real client return wastes time and damages credibility.
Partner With a Service Bureau for Additional Support
Managing a tax practice requires attention to many details beyond preparing returns. A service bureau handles technical support, software updates, and compliance monitoring so you can focus on clients.
TIG Tax Pros provides comprehensive service bureau support for tax professionals at every level. Whether you need software, ERO services, or technical assistance during filing season, support is available when you need it.
Visit TIG Tax Pros to explore Essential Tax Software or Unlimited Tax Software packages that fit your practice size.
Quick Reference Checklist
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Update and test tax software | ☐ |
| Verify ERO status and EFIN | ☐ |
| Review security protocols | ☐ |
| Train staff | ☐ |
| Conduct client outreach | ☐ |
| Organize workspace | ☐ |
| Review fee structures | ☐ |
| Update marketing materials | ☐ |
| Establish filing season schedule | ☐ |
| Complete test e-file submission | ☐ |
Print this checklist. Complete each item before your first client appointment. Preparation creates the foundation for a successful filing season.