By: LYNETTE MAYO, PARALEGAL Kinkead & Stilz PLLC

Well trained paralegals are key to tax attorneys. Paralegals can prevent attorneys from gathering financial documents and performing data entry themselves, thereby freeing them to meet with clients, explain tax strategies and review the updated tax codes.

No two tax returns are exactly alike. Each individual has their own set of needs and circumstances which should be taken into account. However, there are basic steps which can be taken to efficiently prepare individual tax returns.

Paralegals should start with gathering financial documents from the client. It is essential to have good communication skills, as there is always the need to obtain missing information or documentation from clients.

The next step is to organize the documents by income, deductions, self-employment, rental property, farm income, etc.

Now it's time to begin entering the information into the tax software. I suggest using tax software that is suitable to your paralegal=s skill level. If the user is a beginner, you may want to look into tax software designed for public use. These programs are very basic and will clearly walk the user through every step. Then there are advanced programs designed for tax professionals. These are most suitable for those who are already familiar with tax forms. To your advantage, these programs still do much of the work by linking information to other forms and will automatically prepare all required forms. These programs also offer final reviews which will notify the user of errors, omissions, inconsistencies and perform diagnostic reviews which will provide tax strategies for your consideration.

When entering data, it is always a good idea to note on each document that the information has been entered and, more specifically, the form number and line. This will help the paralegal and supervising attorney when it comes time to review the return.

When it is time to file the return, keep in mind that the IRS strongly recommends e-filing for all tax professionals. To become an authorized IRS e-file provider, attorneys must file Form 8633 and pass a suitability background check. The IRS will then send an acceptance letter and issue a password. This process can take up to 45 days. If you plan on e-filing for the upcoming tax season, you should apply as soon as possible. The referenced forms are available at www.irs.ustreas.gov.

Tax season can be overwhelming to all tax professionals, but competent paralegals can make it all run smoother and provide welcome relief.