Business Strategy

  • Tax Filing Timeline: When Does E-File Start?

    The IRS will begin accepting individual returns on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026 More and more taxpayers are leaning towards the convenience and speed of electronic filing (e-file) leading to many of us wanting to know exactly when e-filing starts. The IRS will begin accepting individual returns on Monday, January 26, 2026. When Does E-Filing Start…

  • How to Become a Tax Preparer

    Whether you’re pursuing part-time seasonal work or launching a full-time tax practice, one of the first steps is understanding how to become a tax preparer. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the IRS registration process, key requirements, and how Drake Software®, an authorized e-file provider, can help you start strong. Step 1: Understand the…

  • Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBI): A Guide for Tax Professionals

      The Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, also known as the Section 199A deduction, allows many pass-through business owners to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income on their tax return. This guide explains what QBI is, how to calculate the deduction, which businesses qualify (and don’t), and special considerations like real estate…

  • Preparing for Policy Changes Ahead of Tax Season

     Here is an overview of what may happen and how to prepare ahead of the next tax season. Download the resource below for a comprehensive breakdown of key policy areas and actionable steps for tax professionals and small businesses. Note: These are just predictions. Things change and happen very quickly. We will notify you as…

  • Bank Products and Mobile Payment Apps

    Bank Products and Peer-to-Peer Apps: What Tax Pros Need to Know As tax season approaches, clients increasingly want fast, flexible options for receiving their tax refunds. While bank products remain a trusted method used by tax professionals for years, peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps like Cash App®, Venmo®, and PayPal® are becoming more popular—especially among younger…

  • 6 Practical Tips for Managing Difficult Tax Clients

    6 Practical Tips for Managing Difficult Tax Clients Tax season can bring out the best—and worst—in your clientele. Stress, deadlines, and complex financial issues may cause some tax customers to act impatient, defensive, or outright combative. As a professional tax preparer, knowing how to handle difficult clients is essential for maintaining professionalism, protecting your time,…

  • The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Guide for Tax Pros

    A guide to the latest updates and resources on OB3  Here’s what you’ll learn more about: What is the One Big Beautiful Bill Act? Permanent Extension of 2017 Tax Cuts Increased SALT Deduction Cap Enhanced Child Tax Credit Senior Deduction Introduction R&D Expensing Reinstated Tip Deduction: Which jobs qualify? New Car Loan Deduction Overtime  …

  • AI and Cybersecurity Trends Every Tax Professional Should Watch

    As the demand for digital tax services grows, so do the risks associated with protecting sensitive client data. At the same time, AI is also being used to strengthen cybersecurity defenses. For tax preparers, understanding this dual role is critical to maintaining a secure and compliant practice during peak filing season and beyond. The Role…

  • Version three coming soon: Desk Reference Guide for Tax Year 2025

    Stay Informed in a Year of Constant Tax Law Shifts ***We are still waiting for updated guidance*** With the IRS still developing instructions for Schedule 1-A and making revisions to previously released guidance—such as the updated figures in Rev. Proc. 24-40, along with several provisions still awaiting official regulations—tax professionals are navigating an unusually uncertain…

  • Taxes for Gig Work: What Tax Pros Need to Know

    In today’s ever-expanding freelance economy, more Americans are working outside traditional employment. Whether it’s delivering meals for DoorDash, creating content on YouTube, or driving for Uber, this growing pool of gig workers brings new challenges for tax professionals — especially with upcoming changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Here’s what you need…