With a US Tax code that is nearly 7,000 pages long and equally complex, individuals and business owners are looking to their CPAs and tax accountants for strategic tax planning. There is a lot of buzz currently in the profession around tax planning and new technology and tools that are emerging to create efficiency in the tax planning process.
So, what are some of the current trends and tools for tax planning? And, why is tax planning something firms should be focused on delivering?
Let’s start with the ‘why’. 01
It’s no secret that tax preparation alone has become a commodity. Compliance is required, but the real value is in the strategy to apply the tax code in the most tax efficient way for the client.
Clients aren’t just looking for someone to file their returns — they’re looking for someone to help them plan. Someone who understands their long-term goals, anticipates risks, and adds strategic insight.
Firms that remain trapped in a reactive model risk falling behind — both in profitability and relevance. Shifting to an advisory model isn’t a luxury anymore; it’s a necessity for sustainable growth, client satisfaction, and even the mental wellness of firm owners.
CPAs and tax professionals are in an ideal position to apply their expertise and impact their clients’ financial situations significantly. When higher value is delivered, fees become and investment rather than an expense.
Current Trends in Tax Planning 02
01. Automation
Automation is no longer optional, but it is a core part of modern tax preparation services. Firms are increasingly turning to AI-powered tax planning software and cloud-based solutions to streamline processes, improve accuracy, and deliver faster results. Tools like Intuit ProConnect and Bloomberg BNA Tax Planner are helping tax consultants work smarter, offering clients more personalized and data-driven tax return help.02. Cryptocurrency and Taxation
Cryptocurrencies have moved from the margins to the mainstream. The IRS treats digital assets like property, which means every sale, exchange, or transaction could trigger a taxable event. Understanding how to navigate cryptocurrency taxation is no longer just a value-add; it is becoming essential. Your firm must stay informed about changing regulations and reporting requirements to help clients manage their tax liability effectively.03. Environmental Taxes and Incentives
Sustainability initiatives are influencing tax strategies more than ever before. Businesses investing in energy efficiency, clean technologies, or sustainable practices can often benefit from valuable tax deductions and credits. As a trusted tax accountant or consultant, you have the opportunity to guide clients in leveraging environmental tax incentives to both save money and promote their corporate social responsibility goals.Regulatory Updates and Compliance 03
01. Recent Tax Law Changes
The 2024–2025 tax years have brought notable changes. Adjustments to federal tax brackets, increases to the standard deduction, and enhancements to key tax credits like the Child Tax Credit and energy efficiency incentives are reshaping tax planning strategies.02. International Tax Compliance
Global business operations mean that firms must also navigate complex international tax laws. The OECD’s global minimum tax initiative and expanded foreign reporting requirements are changing the compliance landscape. Firms need to be prepared to assist clients with cross-border tax filing, ensuring they meet their obligations while minimizing risks.Future-Proof Your Tax
Planning with Unison Globus
Best Practices for Modern Tax Planning 04
01. Tax Efficiency
To build a good tax plan, you must know what your clients’ goals are. Sometimes, a client’s goal is to simply minimize their tax liability. But not always. Sometimes, paying more now to gain much more later is a better strategy.For example, a business owner planning to sell their company in the next 1-2 years may be advised to not aggressively minimize the tax liability show strong earnings and get the highest possible valuation.
There is real value in understanding and applying the tax code strategically to help a client reach his or her goals. And there are real consequences in the form of missed wealth accumulation or opportunity when business owner and individuals don’t plan looking forward.
02. Proactive Tax Strategies
Tax planning is no longer a reactive exercise. Techniques such as tax-loss harvesting, maximizing contributions to retirement accounts, optimizing charitable giving, and leveraging tax-advantaged investment vehicles should be discussed with clients throughout the year. By offering proactive strategies, you can help clients reduce their tax liability and strengthen their financial position well before filing season begins.03. Client Education and Communication
Strong communication builds strong client relationships. Educating clients about changing regulations, available tax credits, and smart planning opportunities demonstrates your value beyond basic tax filing assistance. Regular updates, client webinars, and customized tax planning reviews foster trust, build authority, and ensure your clients remain engaged and informed.Leveraging Technology for Efficiency 05
Tax Planning Software
As firms move toward a more advisory-focused model, the tools you use matter more than ever. As established earlier, modern tax planning software isn’t just about saving time — it’s about unlocking smarter, forward-looking strategies for your clients.Platforms like Bloomberg BNA, Drake Tax, TaxPlanIQ, and Corvee offer more than calculations. They let you model different scenarios, forecast multiple years, and even visualize the tax impact of decisions before they’re made. Want to help a client decide between taking a bonus or reinvesting in their business? Now you can show them the numbers in real time.
These tools don’t just reduce errors; they elevate your role from tax preparer to strategic partner. The key is choosing a platform that aligns with how your firm delivers value, supports collaboration, and keeps you a step ahead of client expectations.
- Bottom line: With the right software, you’re not just getting more efficient — you’re helping clients make better decisions and building the kind of trust that drives long-term relationships.
Future-Proofing Your Firm 06
01. Continuous Learning and Development
In this ever-changing tax environment, continuous professional development is essential. Encouraging your team to pursue certifications, attend industry conferences, and participate in IRS webinars will ensure that your firm remains competitive when it comes to your tax planning services offer.02. Adapting to Client Needs
Today’s clients value convenience and personalized service. Virtual consultations, customized tax plans, and flexible communication channels are no longer “nice-to-haves” — they are expectations. Adapting your service model to meet these evolving demands will not only retain existing clients but also attract new ones looking for a forward-thinking tax partner.03. But, What About the Sheer Volume of Compliance Work?
The profession has been talking about a shift from compliance to advisory for years. So, why has it been so difficult to implement in many firms? Quite simply, time and resources. The volume of compliance work is daunting. So, how to accountants remove themselves from compliance work but still be assured of the quality and accuracy that is critical?At Unison Globus, we specialize in delivering modern tax preparation and review services designed to help CPA firms, EAs, and accounting businesses focus on high value advisory services.
We are leading the new era of outsourcing, and we call it Offshore Staffing 2.0. Our team of highly educated and experienced CPAs and accountants get it right the first time and are proficient with your tech stack. Don’t have your processes or SOPs documented? We can help with that as your strategic capacity partner.
Final Thoughts
Tax planning is evolving at a pace we have never seen before. Firms that continue to operate with outdated practices will likely fall behind. Embracing automation, staying current on regulatory changes, offering proactive tax strategies, and prioritizing client education are no longer optional — they are the foundation of sustainable success.
And managing the massive volume of compliance work doesn’t have to be the roadblock. With a strategic capacity partner that you can trust and rely on, you can focus on the client advisory work you love.
It’s Time to Shift
Join our exclusive webinar with Dominique Molina, CPA, MST, CTS, and discover
how modern firms are transforming tax season into a strategic advantage. Reserve your spot now.
how modern firms are transforming tax season into a strategic advantage. Reserve your spot now.