Discussion:VBCPA? are you there?

I don't think I can do this any longer.....doesn't sound like many clients, but because of the mess most of them are in, I am about to just call it a day.....

I wonder if it would be better to prepare 300 easy returns for the same amount of $ as 75 hard returns? Maybe we'd get bored.

Sometimes it's worth a lot to just play hooky for one afternoon and go outside and play - take your mind off your work and have some fun.

Sending good thoughts your way>>>>>>>>>>>

Fire some of your PITA and deadbeat clients. I started screening out some of the price-hunters before even starting their returns. It saves me time and my metrics are better.

Form 7004 is your friend.

Make a to-do list. It was the only way for me to stay on track, and nothing is as satisfying as crossing off items.

Get yourself a little online divirsion. I started playing Tribal Wars. When my head gets too muddled, I spend a few minutes on that game.

I also like to mix up an Old Fashioned and make like Nick Charles when I get home. (God, I'm such a dork)

1. Scrutinize the list of problem returns and put them into buckets. One bucket is ones you feel in control of, another for ones you feel you can get a handle on with some work, and another for ones you really don't want to mess with. Unless you need to stay involved with the third bucket, send them on to someone else who might be able to deal with them better. The control factor isn't just the technical details of filing, but also the personal aspects of dealing with the client.

2. It sounds like maybe you are stretched too broadly. I know you have much more experience than I do, but I have found it worthwhile to focus on a specific type of return, and not to stray too far too fast from that. From the list you gave, I would be insane trying to keep up with the variety alone. All you're missing is some trusts and estates to throw in with the mix.

Best of luck!

In your other post about the audit, you note that the agent gave you 30 days to get this guy's mess in order and file, but you didn't answer, 'or what?' Is the agent going to construct a set of records.

Beth and TC have some wonderful thoughts. Just before I read your post I'd found myself in the family room, just off my office, watching Jack McCoy convicting some felon, and when the phone rang during it, I thought, that's why I have an answer machine.

Breathe

Ah....my friend....rough day huh? I agree with the excellent advice above and can really only add an invite for you to run away for an hour and let me treat you to lunch!

Also, you are more than welcome to put a closed sign up on your office door and come hang out at my office - bring your work with you - it's not quiet here - but at least you might get some work done without your clients constantly walking in all the time! We close our office on Fridays - no clients visiting - no phone calls answered - it's the one day of the week (not counting Sat/Sun) where I can actually get some work done. Think about it - you are always welcome!

Really, go spend some time with your friend Vpcpa and things will look better sooner than you think. Don't give up what you do because of a couple of slim balls - it will all work out.

Called my ex husband today...he can have all my furnishings since I am moving into a little studio on the beach (if the landlord accepts me that is). I am downsizing my home, but upgrading my business I hope.

I need someone to do collections; to be tough and to not give away stuff. My heart is always hanging out in the open and it is part of me so it is hard to separate.

You guys have always shown me that hard work and ethics pay off....so I will keep on for today. Tomorrow no one is promised anyway...

Tears but no time to stop now...ppl are counting on me.....

Please do keep me in your prayers....my only source of income is disappearing if I fire clients but if they don't pay, what are you really firing? TOO much work.... ♥