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What Is an AI-Ready Professional?

What Is an AI-Ready Professional?

The accounting profession is at a turning point. Over the past decade, the industry has experienced a steady decline in new talent entering the field, alongside a wave of retirements that shows no signs of slowing
At the same time, client expectations have shifted dramatically. Business owners are no longer satisfied with clean books and timely tax filings. They want insight, strategic guidance, and leadership. Layer on the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, and it’s clear that firms must rethink how they operate. The answer is not choosing between technology and people. It’s developing professionals who know how to bring the two together. That is what it means to be an AI-ready professional.

The Talent Crisis is Real

The accounting workforce is shrinking. Fewer students are pursuing accounting degrees, CPA exam participation is down, and more than 75% of current CPAs are expected to retire within the next 15 years. At the same time, burnout remains high. Many accountants are overwhelmed by compliance work, long hours, and outdated operating models.
This isn’t a temporary staffing shortage. It’s a structural shift.
Firms can’t solve this by simply hiring locally. The depth of available talent isn’t there. Nor can they rely on AI alone to close the gap. That approach creates a different set of problems. The solution isn’t choosing between people and technology. It’s building a smarter model that leverages both.

AI is Powerful, But Not Perfect

AI tools are becoming more capable by the day. They can:
  • Generate personalized client organizers
  • Read documents and create workpapers
  • Prepare draft tax returns
  • Automate repetitive compliance tasks
    2026 Keynote Slide Deck- Unison…
This saves time. It increases efficiency. It empowers teams to do more with fewer manual steps.
But AI is not flawless.
Accounting is detail-driven. One incorrect calculation or misinterpretation can change an outcome, and damage trust. Even the most advanced systems require human oversight. As Donny Shimamoto, Founder of the Center for Accounting Transformation, puts it: “AI can assist, but it won’t replace the professional judgement of a CPA.”
AI handles the mechanics. Professionals provide the judgment. That distinction matters.

What Clients Expect Today

Client expectations continue to evolve. Businesses want more than compliance services; they expect strategic advice, faster insights into what is happening inside their organizations, and proactive leadership that helps them anticipate challenges before they arise.
If firm leaders remain buried in routine compliance tasks, they simply do not have the bandwidth to provide that level of guidance. To meet modern expectations, firms must create capacity in smarter ways.

From Offshore 1.0 to Offshore 2.0

This is where the evolution of offshore staffing becomes important. Early offshore models focused heavily on cost reduction and transactional support.
This new model is about:
  • Highly skilled, AI-ready professionals
  • Strategic alignment with firm goals
  • Dedicated resources, not shared labor
  • Increasing leadership bandwidth
    2026 Keynote Slide Deck- Unison…
This approach emphasizes dedicated resources, strong security, cultural integration, and long-term partnership. It is about expanding a firm’s capabilities, not replacing its people.

AI-ready Professionals Elevate Technology

An AI-ready professional understands how to oversee, leverage, and quality-check AI systems.
Imagine this workflow: AI gathers documents, sends reminders to clients, builds workpapers, and prepares a draft return. By the time a human touches the file, much of the administrative effort is complete.
That’s where the AI-ready professional steps in.
They:
  • Review and validate AI outputs
  • Apply tax strategy and accounting expertise
  • Ensure compliance and quality
  • Identify advisory opportunities
  • Protect client trust
The firm’s final reviewer then focuses on high-level review and client delivery.
This layered model creates two major outcomes:
1. Leadership regains time and mental space.
2. Firms can scale without being constrained by local hiring shortages

The Future Belongs to Firms That Evolve

At Unison Globus, we believe the future of accounting firms lies in combining technology, well-defined processes, and highly skilled, accountable talent working in unison.
An AI-ready professional is not someone replaced by technology, nor someone competing against it. It is someone who understands how to oversee, leverage, and elevate AI to create better outcomes for clients while restoring balance for firm leadership. The firms that thrive in 2026 and beyond will blend AI-driven automation, strategically integrated offshore talent, and advisory-focused leadership into a smarter, leaner operating model.
If you are ready to move from reactive to proactive, to scale without sacrificing quality or well-being, connect with Unison Globus and let us help you build the bridge to a stronger future.
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Tax Preparation

2026 Tax Season Stress Test: Why In‑House‑Only Models Are Failing CPA Firms

The 2026 tax season is turning into a structural stress test for CPA firms. This is not just another busy spring. It is a collision of rising complexity, client expectations, and a persistent tax season staffing shortage that is exposing the limits of traditional, in-house-only models.
Recent industry data show that more than 75% of CPA firms report difficulty hiring skilled professionals, and many are forced to turn down work because they simply lack capacity. At the same time, compliance demands are not easing. Multi-state issues, digital asset reporting, and expanded IRS scrutiny mean each return takes more time and expertise than before.
So firms are asking difficult questions about their operating models. One experienced partner summed it up this way: “We’re working harder than ever, but our traditional in-house capacity isn’t keeping pace.” That gap between rising workload and static capacity is a core reason CPA firms failing in-house model structures are feeling real performance pressure this year.
The challenge is not just manpower. It is how work gets done. Scattered seasonal hires, overreliance on internal staff, and unrealistic productivity expectations are no longer sufficient when firms face peak workloads that are more intense and complex than in prior seasons.
In this article, we will explore why many firms’ in-house-only models are breaking under pressure, and how strategic alternatives, including CPA outsourcing 2026, tax preparation outsourcing services, and offshore tax preparation services, are emerging as sustainable, high-capacity solutions for firms navigating the 2026 tax season.

What’s Changed for CPA Firms in 2026?

The pressure surrounding the 2026 tax season comes from real, measurable shifts in how tax work is performed. This is not just a tougher hiring market. It’s a structural increase in workload per client, layered on top of a persistent tax season staffing shortage.

Here’s what has materially changed.

1. Expanded Compliance Requirements Are Increasing Prep Time per Return

Over the past two filing cycles, CPA firms have absorbed:
  • Ongoing digital asset reporting for individuals and businesses
  • More complex multi-state filings driven by remote and hybrid workforces
  • Additional documentation tied to pass-through entity elections
  • Deeper reconciliation tied to third-party income reporting

Each of these adds review layers, client follow-ups, and internal QA. Even “standard” returns now require more touchpoints than they did a few years ago. For peak workload accounting firms, that translates directly into longer turnaround times and heavier reviewer burden.

2. OBBBA Adds Another Layer of Recalculation and Client Advisory

OBBBA (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) may be only one piece of the 2026 picture, but it has practical consequences for preparation workflows. Firms are seeing:
  • Re-evaluation of deductions and expensing treatments
  • Reworking of prior-year assumptions that no longer automatically apply
  • Increased client questions around how OBBBA impacts cash flow and tax positioning
  • Longer review cycles as positions that require stronger documentation

OBBBA does not overwhelm firms by itself. But combined with already rising complexity, it contributes to a steady increase in time spent per return, especially for business clients.
Read also:
One Big Beautiful Bill Tax Law Changes: What CPAs and Firms Need to Know for 2025–2026

3. IRS Automation Is Changing How Errors Surface

Expanded matching systems and automated discrepancy detection from the Internal Revenue Service mean filings must be cleaner than ever. Even small inconsistencies now trigger notices faster, creating additional post-filing work in the form of amended returns, client communication, and cleanup tasks.

These hours rarely appear in capacity planning models, yet they consume meaningful staff time during already compressed seasons.

4. Client Profiles Are More Complex Than Before

Many firms report that a growing percentage of clients now involves:

  • Multi-jurisdiction income
  • Equity compensation or small business ownership
  • Cryptocurrency activity
  • Entity restructuring

What used to be edge cases are becoming routine. This directly widens the gap between workload and available in-house capacity.

5. Advisory Expectations Are Colliding With Compliance Volume

Clients increasingly expect planning guidance alongside filings. But that advisory demand peaks at the same moment compliance work does.

This collision is one of the main reasons CPA firms failing in-house model structures are feeling pressure. Internal teams are forced to prioritize volume, leaving little room for strategic engagement.


Put simply, the challenge in 2026 is not just hiring. It is that tax work itself now takes longer, involves more judgment, and demands higher accuracy, all while staffing remains constrained.


That reality is pushing more firms toward CPA outsourcing 2026 strategies and structured tax preparation outsourcing services, not as temporary fixes, but as a way to absorb execution volume while preserving in-house focus on review and advisory.

The Talent Crisis Behind the Tax Season Staffing Shortage

By now, most firms are familiar with the broader accounting talent shortage. What’s newer heading into the 2026 tax season is how uneven the gap has become.

It’s no longer just entry-level roles that are hard to fill. Firms are increasingly struggling to find mid-level tax professionals who can independently handle complex returns, manage client questions, and support reviewers. This “missing middle” is creating operational friction right where firms need stability most.

At the same time, firms are shifting away from traditional seasonal hiring toward as-needed capacity models. But hiring timelines still lag behind real workload spikes. Even when candidates are available, onboarding often happens too late to meaningfully relieve peak demand.

The result is predictable: internal teams absorb pressure through overtime, delayed reviews, and postponed advisory work.

This is why the current tax season staffing shortage feels different. It is not simply about headcount. It is about access to experienced, ready-to-deploy capacity at the exact moment work arrives.

For CPA firms failing in-house model structures, this has become a turning point. Fixed internal teams cannot flex at the pace modern tax workflows require, pushing more firms toward CPA outsourcing 2026 strategies to stabilize delivery during peak workload periods.

Read also: Get Ready for Tax Season: Your Complete Preparation Checklist

Why AI Alone Won’t Solve the Capacity Problem

AI is emerging as the knight in armor for many CPA firms, and a lot of leaders are hoping it will finally ease pressure during filing season. Tools now promise faster intake, automated data extraction, and quicker return assembly. On paper, it sounds like a capacity fix.
In practice, firms are learning that AI helps, but it does not replace experienced professionals.
Here’s what’s showing up on the ground:

1. Automation Speeds Up Tasks, Not Outcomes

Automation speeds up tasks, not outcomes. Data flows faster and first-pass prep improves, but every return still needs qualified reviewers to validate numbers, apply judgment, and ensure compliance, especially for firms handling peak volumes.

2. Complex Decisions Remain Human-Led

Complex decisions remain human-led. Gray-area positions, entity structuring, and evolving regulatory interpretations still require professional expertise. Software cannot assess nuance or risk the way trained tax professionals do.

3. Client-Facing Work Hasn’t Changed

Client-facing work hasn’t changed. Advisors are still responsible for explaining changes, answering planning questions, and guiding decisions. Those conversations take time and cannot be automated.

4. Quality Control Is Becoming More Demanding, Not Less

Quality control is becoming more demanding, not less. With tighter matching and increased scrutiny, review cycles are longer. AI can flag inconsistencies, but accountability and sign-off stay with people.

5. Capacity Limits Remain Unchanged

Capacity limits remain unchanged. Even with automation in place, firms continue to operate within the same constraints of available staff hours and reviewer bandwidth.
What many firms are realizing is that technology improves efficiency, but it does not solve the underlying capacity gap. Work moves faster through systems, yet internal teams still carry the same responsibility load.
This is why more practices are beginning to explore CPA outsourcing 2026 approaches, using tax preparation outsourcing services to absorb execution volume while in-house professionals focus on review, compliance oversight, and client advisory.
For many firms, this blended model is proving far more practical than expecting automation alone to carry the workload.

Where In-House Models Break During Peak Workload

The real pressure on internal teams shows up once volume peaks and timelines compress. This is the point where even well-run firms start to feel operational strain.
Common patterns emerge:

1. Review Queues Grow Faster Than They Clear

Review queues grow faster than they clear. Preparation may move along, but experienced reviewers become the limiting factor. Returns pile up waiting for sign-off, slowing delivery and increasing stress across teams.

2. Advisory Work Gets Deprioritized

Advisory work gets deprioritized. Filing deadlines take over. Planning conversations, client follow-ups, and higher-value engagements are postponed simply because there is no available bandwidth.

3. Overtime Becomes Routine

Overtime becomes routine. Longer hours fill short-term gaps, but they also increase fatigue and elevate the risk of mistakes during the most demanding weeks of the season.

4. Quality Control Tightens Operations Even Further

Quality control tightens operations even further. With higher accuracy expectations and added documentation requirements, review cycles extend. What looks like progress during peak weeks often leads to additional cleanup afterward.

5. Managers Shift into Constant Coordination Mode

Managers shift into constant coordination mode. Senior staff spend more time reallocating work, answering urgent questions, and resolving workflow bottlenecks than focusing on client strategy or firm growth.
These challenges are becoming familiar across peak workload accounting firms. Internal teams work hard, but fixed headcount struggles to absorb fluctuating demand, especially as returns grow more complex and client expectations continue to rise.

As a result, many firms are rethinking how execution work is handled. Rather than pushing everything through internal resources, they are distributing preparation volume through external support, including tax preparation outsourcing services, allowing in-house professionals to stay focused on review, compliance oversight, and client advisory while preparation capacity scales more flexibly.

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CPA Outsourcing 2026: From Backup Plan to Built-In Capacity

Outsourcing is no longer something firms turn to only when workloads become unmanageable. In CPA outsourcing 2026, more practices are building external capacity directly into their operating model.

The shift reflects operational reality.
Returns are taking longer. Review queues form earlier. Client inquiries arrive continuously. Internal teams are often operating near capacity before peak demand even arrives. Instead of reacting to bottlenecks, firms are redesigning workflows to assume variable volume.
In practice, this often includes:

1. Preparation Work Moving Offshore Earlier in the Cycle

Preparation work moving offshore earlier in the cycle. Rather than waiting for internal pressure to build, firms route return preparation and documentation tasks to structured Offshore Tax Preparation Services, keeping reviewer pipelines manageable.

2. External Professionals Working Within Firm Systems

External professionals working within firm systems. Modern outsourcing is integrated. Teams access the same tax software, follow firm-defined processes, and deliver work formatted for immediate review.

3. Flexible Scaling Tied to Inflow

Flexible scaling tied to inflow. Firms adjust support weekly based on actual return volume, something fixed headcount cannot replicate without hiring or layoffs.

4. Clear Division of Responsibilities

Clear division of responsibilities. Execution work is distributed externally while internal CPAs retain control over review, compliance oversight, and client advisory.
A common example involves routing individual returns and standardized business filings through U.S. Tax Preparation Outsourcing for CPAs & EAs, while keeping complex engagements and final sign-off in-house. During heavier weeks, additional offshore capacity absorbs overflow. As volume stabilizes, support scales back without long-term payroll impact.
This structure creates smoother workflow pipelines and reduces the annual strain that many firms have come to accept as inevitable.
That’s why outsourcing solutions for CPA firms are increasingly viewed as operational infrastructure rather than emergency support. The focus is not on replacing internal expertise, but on distributing execution volume intelligently so internal professionals can concentrate on higher-value work.

Offshore Tax Preparation Services: Built to Flex With Real Workflows

Firms are not choosing between staffing models anymore. They are combining them.
In practice, offshore support works best when it operates alongside internal teams, scaling up or down based on real workload patterns rather than fixed assumptions.
That is how Unison Globus structures its engagement with CPA firms.
Instead of forcing firms into one format, Unison Globus supports a blended model where Dedicated Resources and Tax Packages can run simultaneously.

How It Works in Real Time ​

During steady workflow periods:
  • A Dedicated Resource supports ongoing preparation work
  • That individual becomes familiar with firm systems, review standards, and communication protocols
  • Internal reviewers maintain oversight and final sign-off
When volume normalizes:
  • Package support scales back
  • Dedicated resources continue steady-state preparation assistance

This structure allows firms to maintain continuity while absorbing seasonal surges without expanding permanent headcount.

Why Firms Are Moving Toward This Hybrid Offshore Model ​

The trend toward Offshore Tax Preparation Services is accelerating for structural reasons:
  • Return complexity has increased across individual and business filings
  • Mid-level tax professionals remain difficult to hire quickly
  • Review capacity, not preparation speed, is becoming the bottleneck
  • Firms want flexibility without long-term payroll commitments
Industry data continues to show that firms integrating offshore preparation support experience:
  • Reduced overtime hours
  • Faster review cycle times
  • Improved margin predictability during peak periods
What makes this model sustainable is not volume alone. It is integration.
Work flows through intake, offshore preparation, in-house review, and final delivery without disruption. Internal CPAs remain in control of compliance decisions and client relationships, while execution volume adjusts dynamically.

Within broader tax preparation outsourcing services, this kind of integrated approach reflects how modern CPA firms are rethinking delivery.

Not as a replacement for internal teams, but as an operational layer that expands capacity exactly when needed.
Read also:
2026 Tax Season Prep: IRS Compliance & Outsourcing Strategies for CPA Firms

Conclusion: Building a Future-Ready HNW Advisory Model

The pressure firms are feeling is not temporary. Workloads have changed, return complexity has expanded, and staffing realities have tightened. What once felt like a seasonal surge now reflects a structural imbalance between demand and internal capacity.
The pressure firms are feeling is not temporary. Workloads have changed, return complexity has expanded, and staffing realities have tightened. What once felt like a seasonal surge now reflects a structural imbalance between demand and internal capacity.
This is why CPA outsourcing 2026 is becoming part of long-term planning rather than a short-term response. When implemented thoughtfully, tax preparation outsourcing services allow execution volume to flex while internal professionals retain oversight of compliance and client relationships. Models like those offered by Unison Globus show how modern outsourcing solutions for CPA firms can operate alongside internal teams, providing capacity without compromising control.
The 2026 tax season may be remembered less for its workload and more for what it revealed. For many CPA firms, it has clarified that resilience is no longer about working harder. It is about building capacity differently.

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Your 5-Point Capacity Checklist for 2026 Tax Season Readiness

Every tax season brings familiar pressures: deadlines, backlogs, team burnout, and the perennial tug-of-war between compliance and strategic advisory. But 2026 is different. It demands more than harder work; it calls for a structural shift in how firms operate. The most successful accounting and CPA firms are redefining capacity not by billable hours logged, but by how much strategic time they can offer clients. At the heart of this transformation is the recognition that freeing up partner and senior time (ideally 15-20 hours a week) is no longer optional: it’s essential.
For firms navigating this shift, the name Unison Globus has become synonymous with capacity empowerment and back-office excellence. With global outsourcing expertise tailored to accounting practices and CPA firms, Unison Globus helps streamline compliance work, from tax preparation to bookkeeping, so firms can focus on higher-value advisory roles.
Here’s your 5-Point Capacity Checklist to move into 2026 tax season not just surviving, but thriving.

1. Audit Your “Compliance-to-Advisory” Gap

Before you can build capacity, you need to understand where you’re spending it. Recent studies show that only 4 in 10 firms currently have the bandwidth to deliver true strategic guidance to clients. Most are still stuck in compliance mode churning through data, forms, and deadlines. The result? Partners and seniors remain overloaded, with precious little time for advisory conversations that clients increasingly demand.
Start your readiness process by mapping out where your team’s hours go. Identify the routine compliance tasks that don’t require senior judgment. Delegating these to skilled outsourced teams like those at Unison Globus can reclaim up to 15-20 hours per senior per week, turning compliance from a bottleneck into a background function.

2. Evolve Beyond “Offshore 1.0”

Outsourcing has long been regarded as a cost-savings tactic. But the model must evolve. Traditional offshore solutions were often little more than “seat-fillers” – bodies to handle basic tasks. Today’s competitive landscape requires AI-ready professionals who do more than enter data; they bring critical thinking, domain knowledge, and adaptability. These offshore teams should act as extensions of your in-house staff.
Unison Globus exemplifies this advanced outsourcing model by integrating highly experienced accounting professionals who understand U.S. tax and compliance standards and work with major tech stacks like QuickBooks and UltraTax. Their teams don’t just complete tasks. They integrate into workflows and adapt to client expectations.

3. Standardize Your SOPs

Every firm has processes that feel intuitive to insiders but chaotic to outsiders. These undocumented workflows are a hidden drag on capacity. When key team members are out, overloaded, or unavailable, productivity suffers because others don’t know how tasks are done.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aren’t glamorous, but they are firm assets. With documented processes, training new team members becomes efficient, quality becomes consistent, and outsourcing partners can integrate smoothly into your operations. Unison Globus specializes in helping firms emulate and redesign key SOPs, ensuring that your firm’s “secret sauce” becomes scalable and sharable.

4. Audit Your Hybrid Tech Stack

Capacity is not just about people, it’s about how technology amplifies (or inhibits) your team’s work. The firms best positioned for 2026 are adept at blending human judgment with machine speed. Tools like QuickBooks, UltraTax, Xero, and other modern platforms can automate data flows, flag exceptions instantly, and generate insights that would take humans hours to produce.
But tools only help if your team knows how to use them. Conduct a tech proficiency audit: Who on your team can confidently leverage automation features? Where are manual workarounds still clogging workflows? Use outsourcing partners with strong tech integration expertise so that no tool in your stack remains underutilized. Unison Globus’s teams are adept at working across accounting and tax software, supporting hybrid human-tech workflows that elevate capacity and accuracy.

5. Prioritize Founder and Partner Mental Health

This might be the most overlooked point on any capacity checklist: your team’s well-being matters. Chronic overwork is not a badge of honor. It’s a failure of strategy. When leaders and seniors are constantly in crisis mode, decision quality drops, burnout increases, and client service can suffer.
Strategic offloading of compliance tasks is a mental health strategy as much as it is a business one. Firms that adopt smart capacity models report not only improved business performance, but also reduced stress among leadership. Unison Globus’s model provides this “weight-lifting relief” quickly and reliably within the first weeks of partnership, allowing your team to breathe, think bigger, and lead your firm with clarity.

Ready to Unlock Strategic Capacity for 2026?

Tax season readiness in 2026 isn’t about clocking extra hours; it’s about restructuring your firm so that strategic advisory is the default, not the exception. With a clear audit of compliance work, evolved offshore partnerships, standardized processes, optimized tech use, and an eye on wellbeing, you’ll build the capacity to deliver the services your clients want and deserve.
Partner with Unison Globus, a trusted leader in outsourced accounting, tax preparation, and back-office support for CPA and accounting firms. With tailored solutions designed to free your team from compliance overload and empower strategic growth, Unison Globus is the partner that helps firms transform backlogs into breakthroughs.
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Remote Work & Multi-State Tax Compliance: 2026 Guide to Avoid Surprises

Remote work is no longer a temporary adjustment or a perk reserved for a few roles. For many businesses, it has quietly become part of everyday operations. Teams are now spread across states, often without formal policy changes or a clear understanding of how this shift affects Remote work tax compliance responsibilities.
What has not changed at the same pace is how state tax systems operate. Most state tax rules were built around predictable business footprints, physical offices, and clearly defined work locations. Remote work disrupts that structure. As a result, businesses with distributed teams are increasingly exposed to Remote workforce tax challenges they may not realise exist.
Heading into 2026, this disconnect is becoming harder to ignore. Multi-state tax compliance is no longer a concern limited to large enterprises. Even small and mid-sized businesses with remote or hybrid teams can face state income tax, payroll, and sales tax requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
Preparing for Preparing for 2026 tax changes is not about anticipating a single new regulation. It is about recognising that remote work has permanently reshaped where work happens, and state tax authorities are adapting enforcement accordingly. Businesses that address this now are far better positioned than those who wait until tax season reveals the gaps.

Understanding State Nexus in a Remote Work Environment

State nexus sits at the centre of multi-state tax compliance, and it is also where most remote businesses underestimate their exposure.
In practical terms, nexus refers to the level of connection a business has with a state that allows that state to impose tax obligations. Traditionally, this connection was tied to physical offices, storefronts, or facilities. With remote work, that definition has expanded.
When an employee performs work from a different state, even from a home office, that activity can establish nexus. Once nexus exists, businesses may face Remote employee tax obligations that include state income tax filings, payroll withholding, unemployment registrations, and, in certain cases, sales tax compliance.
What makes Remote work and state tax laws especially challenging is that nexus does not require intent. A business does not need to actively market or sell in a state for obligations to arise. The physical presence of work being performed can be enough.
🔍 Quick Reality Check A remote employee does not need to interact with customers or generate revenue in a state to trigger nexus. In many jurisdictions, performing core job duties from that location is sufficient.

How Remote Employees Trigger Tax Responsibilities

Remote teams can create tax exposure in several ways:
  • State income tax: Employers may be required to file returns and engage in state income tax planning to properly apportion income.
  • Payroll withholding: Payroll compliance multi-state rules require employers to withhold based on where the employee works, not where the company is based.
  • Employment-related taxes: Unemployment insurance and labour-related registrations typically follow the employee’s physical location.
Because remote worker tax rules vary significantly from state to state, the same remote setup can be compliant in one jurisdiction and non-compliant in another. This inconsistency is a major driver of Remote workforce tax challenges for growing businesses.

Why One Remote Employee Still Matters

A common misconception is that tax exposure only arises once a business reaches a certain size in a state. In reality, even a single remote worker can establish nexus, particularly for payroll and income tax purposes.
This is why Business tax planning for remote employees cannot rely on informal assumptions. Accurate location tracking and a clear understanding of Remote work and state tax laws are essential for maintaining ongoing compliance.

💡 Did You Know?

Multi-state compliance gaps often come to light when businesses change payroll providers, expand benefits, or standardise systems, because those transitions expose inconsistencies in employee location and tax treatment.

Common Multi-State Tax Compliance Mistakes Businesses Make

Once remote work is established, tax exposure rarely comes from a lack of awareness. It comes from how businesses structure decisions, systems, and accountability around compliance. Most multi-state tax issues develop gradually, driven by small process gaps that go unnoticed until they accumulate.

This section focuses strictly on operational missteps, not rule explanations.

1. Treating Remote Hiring as a One-Time Event

Remote hiring is often handled as a simple onboarding step. Once the employee is added to payroll, the compliance conversation ends.

Without a recurring review tied to multi-state tax compliance, new Remote employee tax obligations can persist long after hiring decisions are made, especially as roles or work patterns change.

2. Using Payroll Systems Without State-Level Controls

Many payroll platforms are capable of multi-state processing but are not configured correctly for it.

When systems lack state-specific controls, Payroll compliance multi-state becomes reactive. Withholding may follow outdated assumptions, and corrections often occur after filings rather than before them.

3. Depending on Year-End Fixes to Resolve Ongoing Exposure

Some businesses rely on annual cleanup during tax season to address issues created throughout the year.

By the time Multi-state tax filing deadlines approach, options for correction are limited. This reduces the effectiveness of Business tax planning for remote employees and increases the likelihood of penalties.

4. Fragmented Ownership Across Teams

Tax responsibilities are often split across HR, payroll, finance, and external providers. In remote environments, this fragmentation creates gaps in state income tax planning.

Without clear ownership, location data, payroll treatment, and filing positions drift out of alignment.

5. Bringing in External Support Only After Errors Surface

Businesses frequently delay the decision to outsource tax preparation until inconsistencies are identified.

At that stage, tax preparation outsourcing solutions are used to repair issues rather than prevent them, limiting their ability to improve long-term accuracy and efficiency.

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Sales Tax Implications for Remote Operations

When businesses think about Remote work tax compliance, sales tax is rarely the first concern. Payroll and income tax obligations tend to surface earlier, while sales tax exposure often develops quietly in the background.
That makes it one of the most commonly overlooked areas of multi-state tax compliance for remote and hybrid businesses.
Sales tax obligations can arise even when a business does not sell physical products or maintain customer-facing operations in a state.

How Remote Employees Can Trigger Sales Tax Exposure

In many states, the presence of a remote employee can contribute to sales tax nexus, depending on how the state defines taxable presence.

This may require businesses to:

  • Register for sales tax in additional states
  • Collect and remit tax on taxable transactions
  • File ongoing sales tax returns

For businesses operating across state lines, this adds another layer to already complex Remote workforce tax challenges.

Read also: HNW Tax Planning 2026: Capital Gains & Offshore Compliance

Service and Digital Businesses Are Not Always Exempt

A common misconception is that sales tax only applies to product-based companies. In reality, some states impose sales or use tax on certain services, digital products, or bundled offerings.


As Remote work and state tax laws evolve, businesses that previously assumed sales tax did not apply may find themselves facing new registration and filing requirements.

Timing Is Where Problems Escalate

Sales tax issues often surface later than payroll or income tax issues. By the time they are identified, several filing periods may have passed.


This creates pressure around Multi-state tax filing deadlines and limits corrective options, especially when registrations were never completed on time.

💡 Did You Know? Many businesses only realise they have sales tax exposure after Rexpanding into new states through hiring, not through sales growth.

Why Businesses Should Prepare Now for 2026

For many businesses, multi-state tax issues only come into focus once a notice is received or a filing deadline is missed. By that point, options are limited and costs tend to rise quickly.

Preparing now allows businesses to address multi-state tax compliance in a controlled way rather than under time pressure. As remote and hybrid work models stabilise, tax exposure becomes easier to map, but only if it is reviewed intentionally.
One of the key challenges with Remote work tax compliance is that obligations accumulate over time. Missed registrations, incorrect withholding, or unfiled returns can span multiple years before they are identified. When that happens, remediation becomes more complex and less flexible.
Early preparation also supports more effective Business tax planning for remote employees. Businesses can align payroll systems, filing positions, and internal processes with actual work locations, rather than relying on assumptions or retroactive fixes.
Heading into 2026, businesses that act now have more room to correct gaps, structure compliance efficiently, and reduce disruption during tax season. Waiting shifts the focus from planning to damage control.

The Role of Professional Advisors in Multi-State Compliance

Managing multi-state tax compliance in a remote work environment requires more than meeting filing deadlines. It involves understanding how different state rules interact, how employee location affects exposure, and how compliance obligations evolve as teams change.

Professional advisors help businesses interpret remote worker tax rules in a practical way. Rather than reacting to issues after they arise, advisors assess risk early, identify where obligations exist, and guide businesses on how to structure compliance across jurisdictions.

For companies with distributed teams, advisors also play a key role in aligning payroll, income tax, and sales tax obligations. This coordination is essential for maintaining consistent state income tax planning and reducing gaps between systems and filings.

As businesses scale, especially those managing a CPA remote workforce, advisors provide continuity. They help ensure that compliance does not break down as hiring accelerates or operational complexity increases.
Most importantly, professional support allows internal teams to focus on operations and growth while maintaining confidence that multi-state tax compliance is being managed accurately and consistently.

Why Outsourcing Is a Strategic Choice

Outsourcing is not only about efficiency. With the right tax preparation outsourcing solutions, businesses gain confidence that compliance is handled accurately, deadlines are met, and internal teams remain focused on strategic priorities.

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Benefits of Outsourcing for Accuracy and Efficiency

As remote teams expand across states, managing compliance internally becomes more complex. Each additional jurisdiction introduces new filing requirements, deadlines, and rule variations that can quickly overwhelm in-house tax and payroll teams.
Outsourcing helps businesses manage this complexity without increasing internal headcount or risking inconsistent compliance.

Managing Multi-State Complexity at Scale

Handling multi-state tax compliance internally often requires deep familiarity with multiple state rules, frequent monitoring of changes, and precise coordination across systems.

An outsourced multistate tax preparation service provides structured coverage across jurisdictions, ensuring filings are handled consistently as remote operations grow.

Improving Accuracy Across Filings

Accuracy is one of the most immediate benefits of tax preparation outsourcing solutions.

Dedicated teams focused on multi-state filings are better equipped to:

  • Track filing requirements across states
  • Apply state-specific rules correctly
  • Reduce errors tied to remote employee tax obligations

This lowers the risk of incorrect withholding, missed registrations, or misaligned filings.

Reducing Pressure During Tax Season

Peak tax periods often coincide with broader operational demands. Internal teams may struggle to manage expanding compliance needs alongside day-to-day responsibilities.

When businesses outsource tax preparation, workload is distributed more effectively, helping teams meet deadlines without compromising quality or speed.

Read also: Get Ready for Tax Season: Your Complete Preparation Checklist

Supporting Long-Term Consistency

For many businesses, offshore tax preparation services offer scalability and continuity. As remote work models evolve, outsourced teams can adapt processes without disruption, maintaining consistency year over year.

This is particularly valuable for businesses experiencing ongoing hiring or geographic expansion.

Conclusion

Remote work has changed where business activity happens, and tax compliance has to reflect that reality. For businesses with teams across states, multi-state obligations are now part of normal operations.
Addressing multi-state tax compliance early allows businesses to align payroll, filings, and planning with actual work locations, reducing risk as teams continue to evolve.
For organizations managing this transition, support matters. Unison Globus helps businesses navigate multi-state tax complexity through structured guidance, experienced teams, and reliable outsourcing support, allowing compliance to stay aligned as remote operations grow.
Categories
Tax Preparation

The 5 Essential Cybersecurity Investments Every CPA Firm Needs Before Tax Season

Every year, as Tax Season approaches, cybersecurity specialists and practicing CPAs issue the same warning: January through April is the peak season for cyberattacks on accounting firms. IRS Security Summit reports show that ransomware, phishing, and credential-theft attempts spike nearly 50% during this window. Meanwhile, AICPA technology committees note that many firms still rely on outdated cybersecurity controls that attackers can bypass within minutes.
For CPA firm leaders, this isn’t just an IT risk — it’s a direct threat to client trust, firm reputation, business continuity, and compliance. With more client data moving through systems than at any other time of year, the need for strong CPA firm cybersecurity becomes non-negotiable.
Experts from MSSPs, regional-firm CIOs, and CPA-focused IT providers consistently highlight five cybersecurity investments that deliver the highest protection and the highest ROI before Tax Season. These are the tools and frameworks that move firms beyond basic antivirus and into true accounting firm data protection.
Below is the full, expert-aligned breakdown with real tools and practical guidance.

1. Managed Detection & Response (MDR): Your Firm’s 24/7 Cyber Defense Layer

Before diving into tools or tips, it’s important to understand why MDR has become the #1 recommended cybersecurity investment for CPA firms. Unlike traditional antivirus, MDR combines advanced detection technology with human-led analysis and real-time incident response — essential during a period where tax season security risks are highest.

What MDR Actually Does (in practical CPA terms)

MDR closes the dangerous gap between basic security tools and modern threats. Instead of waiting for an attack, MDR proactively hunts for anomalies, flags unusual behavior, and neutralizes threats before they disrupt tax workflows — one of the most powerful defenses against tax season ransomware protection.
  • 24/7 Monitoring by a Dedicated SOC Team. A professional Security Operations Center continuously watches your environment for suspicious activity, ensuring threats are detected even outside business hours.
  • Proactive Threat Hunting. Human analysts look for early warning signs—unusual logins, unexpected data movement, or access attempts in tax workflow areas.
  • Rapid Containment & Remediation. If a threat surfaces, MDR can isolate affected devices instantly, stopping ransomware or data theft before it spreads.

Expert-Recommended MDR Tools​

Before selecting an MDR solution, it helps to understand the differences between enterprise-grade tools and budget-friendly alternatives. Premium MDR platforms offer deeper visibility, more experienced SOC analysts, and faster containment—qualities that matter during high-pressure Tax Season when attacks multiply.

Premium, High-Reliability MDR Solutions

  • CrowdStrike Falcon Complete — Market leader in threat detection and ransomware prevention
  • Arctic Wolf MDR — SOC-as-a-Service with strong support for small and mid-sized CPA firms
  • Sophos Managed Threat Response (MTR) — Robust protection with excellent value for remote and hybrid teams

Budget-Friendly / Entry-Level Alternatives

(These improve security but do not replace full MDR.)

  • Microsoft Defender for Business
  • Bitdefender GravityZone
  • Malwarebytes EDR
These tools are frequently recommended by Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) for CPA firms because they deliver enterprise-grade protection without requiring an in-house SOC.

How CPA Firms Should Choose the Right MDR Solution

Selecting the right MDR tool comes down to evaluating how well it fits your firm’s size, workflow complexity, staffing model, and remote-access needs. During Tax Season, speed, clarity, and human response matter more than features on paper.
Tips 1: Choose human-led MDR, not automated-only EDR. Human analysts catch advanced attacks that automated systems consistently miss.
Tips 2: Ensure protection extends to remote & seasonal staff devices. Temporary workers and remote logins create risk pathways that attackers love to exploit.
Tips 3: Prioritize ransomware rollback capabilities. CrowdStrike and Sophos can “undo” an attack by restoring systems to a clean state.
Tips 4: Request monthly/quarterly threat reports. These reports strengthen insurance applications, IRS compliance, and client trust.
Tips 5: Verify compatibility with your accounting tech stack. MDR should integrate smoothly with CCH Axcess, UltraTax, CaseWare, ShareFile, Suralink, and other tax/audit systems.

2. Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA): Modern Access Control for a High-Risk Tax Season

Zero Trust has become the new standard for accounting firm compliance security, recommended by IRS Security Summit advisors and CIOs across the profession. It operates on one principle: never trust, always verify — exactly what a CPA firm needs when dozens of seasonal, remote, and hybrid staff access sensitive tax data.
This matters profoundly for CPA firms because Tax Season introduces more logins, more devices, more staff, and more external access points than any other time of year. Zero Trust ensures that even if an attacker steals a password or compromises a device, they cannot freely move inside your systems or reach sensitive client data.

What Zero Trust Actually Does (in practical CPA terms)

ZTA prevents attackers from moving laterally inside your network — even if they steal a password. This is why Zero Trust is one of the most effective frameworks for preventing client data breaches and securing remote access for growing firms.

  • Enforces Strict Identity Verification for Every Login. Every sign-in must pass multiple checks—password, device health, location, and MFA—significantly reducing credential-theft risk.
  • Limits Access on a Need-to-Know Basis. Seasonal staff, junior accountants, and remote contractors only get access to specific folders, apps, or client groups—not the entire system.
  • Blocks Lateral Movement of Ransomware or Attackers. Even if a hacker compromises one device, Zero Trust prevents them from jumping to other systems or client data.
  • Adapts to Risky Behavior in Real Time. Suspicious login patterns (e.g., midnight logins, foreign IPs, unknown devices) trigger automatic restrictions or full lockouts.

Expert-Recommended Zero Trust Tools​

Zero Trust is not a single product — it’s a security framework supported by identity tools, access controls, and device validation systems. Below are tools widely used and recommended in the accounting industry.

Enterprise-Grade Zero Trust Solutions

  • Duo Security (Cisco) — Most popular Zero Trust + MFA solution among CPA firms
  • Okta Identity Cloud — Strong for multi-office firms with complex access needs
  • Azure AD Conditional Access — Ideal for firms already using Microsoft 365

Low-Cost / Entry-Level Zero Trust Options

(These offer partial Zero Trust benefits.)

  • Google Advanced Protection
  • LastPass MFA (starter edition)
  • Microsoft Authenticator + Conditional Access basic rules

How CPA Firms Should Choose the Right Zero Trust Solution

Choosing a Zero Trust tool comes down to how your firm manages remote work, seasonal hiring, tax software, and cloud access. A good ZTA solution should strengthen access control without disrupting productivity during your busiest months.
Tips 1: Prioritize Conditional Access Policies. Your tool should automatically block risky logins based on device, location, or behavior.
Tips 2: Ensure the solution validates device health and compliance. Only updated, secure, firm-approved devices should be allowed to access tax and audit systems.
Tips 3: Look for seamless integration with your tax stack. Duo, Okta, and Azure AD integrate well with:
  • CCH Axcess
  • Thomson Reuters products
  • QuickBooks Online
  • Practice management portals
  • Document exchange platforms
Tip 4: Choose a platform with granular user permissions. You should be able to restrict access by:
  • Client group
  • Job role
  • Department
  • Engagement type

This is essential for seasonal and offshore teams.
Tips 5: Ensure the tool can enforce MFA across every application. Many breaches happen because firms protect email with MFA but ignore portals, workflow tools, or tax software.

Want to strengthen your firm’s cybersecurity
and capacity before Tax Season?

Unison Globus can help.

Contact Us

3. Advanced Cloud Access Security: Protecting Remote, Hybrid & Seasonal Teams

As CPA firms expand remote work and seasonal hiring, cloud access has become one of the most exploited attack vectors. Most successful breaches in the accounting sector now involve compromised credentials, unsecured remote devices, or unmonitored cloud access.

This is why cloud access security is considered a core part of modern CPA firm cybersecurity investments.

What Advanced Cloud Access Security Actually Does (in practical CPA terms)

CASB tools monitor every login, device, and data movement across your cloud apps — from tax platforms to file-sharing systems. This level of oversight is key to protecting firms relying heavily on remote access during the busiest workload months of the year.
  • Monitors and Controls Access Across All Cloud Apps. Tracks every user’s activity across portals, file-sharing platforms, email, tax software, and document systems—flagging or blocking unusual behavior.
  • Enforces Security on Remote and Personal Devices. Only compliant, secure, and updated devices can access client information—even if an employee uses a home laptop.
  • Blocks Unapproved Apps and Shadow IT. Prevents staff from using risky file-sharing apps (e.g., Dropbox personal, WhatsApp, WeTransfer) to move client documents.
  • Detects Abnormal Access Patterns in Real Time. Large late-night downloads, foreign IP logins, or repeated credential attempts trigger automatic alerts or lockouts.
  • Protects Data Even if a Device Is Lost or Stolen. Admins can remotely wipe access tokens, block sessions, or disable app connections instantly.

Expert-Recommended Tools for Advanced Cloud Access Security ​

These tools are widely used in industries where confidentiality is critical — banking, insurance, consulting, and increasingly, mid-sized CPA firms.

Enterprise-Grade Cloud Access Security Tools (CASB + Zero Trust + Monitoring)

  • Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps (CASB) — Best for firms on M365, deep visibility across cloud usage, excellent threat analytics
  • Netskope Security Cloud — Powerful CASB and data-loss prevention, ideal for larger CPA firms with high data volume
  • Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange — Strong for multi-office and offshore teams, excellent for securing remote access

Low-Cost / Lighter Alternatives

(Not full CASB, but improves cloud access control.)

  • 1Password Business with SSO
  • Google Endpoint Management
  • Microsoft 365 Conditional Access (basic rules)

How CPA Firms Should Choose the Right Cloud Access Security Solution

The right solution depends on your firm’s size, remote-work model, tech stack, and client workflow. Focus on visibility, control, and seamless integration with tax and audit systems.
Tip 1: Choose a tool that integrates with your entire cloud environment. Your solution must cover:
  • Email
  • Portals
  • File-sharing systems
  • Tax platforms
  • Document storage
  • Client communication apps
Tips 2: Look for automated blocking, not just alerts. During Tax Season, nobody has time to react to every alert. Your tool should block suspicious actions immediately.
Tips 3: Ensure device compliance checks are included. Firms often discover that seasonal staff use unpatched laptops or personal devices. This is one of the biggest cloud security risks.
Tip 4: Prioritize visibility into file-sharing and data movement. Look for tools that show:
  • Who downloaded what
  • When
  • From where
  • On which device

This protects against accidental leaks and malicious insiders.
Tips 5: Make sure the tool can prevent the use of unauthorized cloud apps. Shadow IT is a real problem in accounting firms. Your tool should block unsanctioned apps with one click.

4. Data Encryption & Secure File Exchange: The Non-Negotiable Shield for Client Information

Client data — SSNs, W-2s, 1099s, payroll reports, bank statements — is the most valuable target for cybercriminals. Encryption is both a compliance expectation and a frontline defense in accounting firm data protection. IRS Publication 4557, the FTC Safeguards Rule, and several state privacy laws explicitly emphasize encryption as a foundational expectation for tax professionals.

During Tax Season, when document exchange volume explodes, encryption tools and secure portals prevent accidental leaks, malicious access, and email-based exposures. Strong encryption and secure file exchange tools ensure that even if data is intercepted, stolen, or accessed improperly, it remains unreadable and unusable.

What Data Encryption & Secure File Exchange Actually Do (in practical CPA terms)

Encryption protects client data by scrambling it so that only authorized users—with the right keys—can access it. Secure file exchange tools add an additional layer by ensuring documents travel safely between the firm and clients, without exposure to risky email attachments or unprotected cloud links.
  • Encrypts Sensitive Data at Rest and in Transit. Files remain protected whether they’re stored on a laptop, uploaded to a portal, emailed, or moved across cloud systems.
  • Protects Client Documents from Unauthorized Access. Even if a device is stolen, hacked, or compromised, encrypted files cannot be opened without the proper credentials.
  • Replaces Email Attachments with Secure Client Portals. Tax season’s biggest leaks often originate from unencrypted PDF attachments sent via email.
  • Ensures Compliance with IRS, FTC, and State Data Security Rules. Encryption is now a regulatory expectation for firms handling taxpayer data.
  • Tracks and Logs Document Access for Audit Trails. Provides visibility into who accessed what, when, and from where—critical for compliance and cybersecurity insurance claims.

Expert-Recommended Encryption & Secure File Exchange Tools ​

These tools are widely used by CPA firms, audit practices, and financial institutions where confidentiality is non-negotiable.

Leading Secure File Exchange & Encryption Tools for CPA Firms

  • Citrix ShareFile
    • Most popular among CPA firms
    • Easy client experience
    • Strong encryption & access controls
  • Liscio
    • Combines secure messaging + file exchange
    • Designed specifically for accountants
    • Great for eliminating email
  • Suralink
    • Excellent for audit request lists
    • Built for multi-round document exchange
    • Provides strong logging & audit trails
  • Adobe Acrobat Pro Encryption
    • Useful for protecting individual PDFs
    • Good for firm-level PDF workflows

Low-Cost / Built-In Encryption Options

(Not a replacement for secure portals, but helpful as part of a layered approach.)

  • Windows BitLocker — full-disk encryption
  • Mac FileVault — full-disk encryption
  • Microsoft 365 Message Encryption — for secure email messages
  • Google Workspace Trusted Tester Encryption — basic document protection
These tools directly support data encryption for CPA firms — a long-tail keyword now integrated naturally.

How CPA Firms Should Choose the Right Encryption & Secure File Exchange Solution

Choosing the right encryption and file exchange tools depends on your staff workflow, client behavior, and the types of documents your firm handles during Tax Season.
Tip 1: Select a portal or file exchange tool that clients will actually use. If it’s confusing, clients return to email — undoing your security investment.
Tip 2: Choose tools that integrate with your tax and audit software. Look for compatibility with:
  • UltraTax
  • CCH Axcess
  • Drake
  • CaseWare
  • QuickBooks
  • Practice management systems
Tips 3: Prioritize solutions that enforce MFA for client access. This significantly reduces the risk of compromised client accounts.
Tip 4: Look for expiring links, download restrictions & user-level permissions. These controls prevent unauthorized sharing and limit data exposure.
Tips 5: Ensure the tool provides strong logging + access tracking. Audit trails are essential during a breach investigation or compliance review.

5. Incident Response & Business Continuity: Your Firm’s Survival Plan When (Not If) an Attack Happens

Even with strong controls, breaches happen. What separates resilient firms from vulnerable ones is how quickly they respond, contain, and recover. During Tax Season, even one hour of downtime can derail deadlines and damage client trust. What separates resilient firms from vulnerable ones is not the absence of incidents, but the preparedness to respond quickly and recover without business interruption.
An IR plan is required under IRS, FTC, and cyber insurance mandates — making it a core part of CPA firm cybersecurity.. During Tax Season—when every hour of downtime risks missed deadlines, financial penalties, and reputational damage—these plans become essential.

What Incident Response & Business Continuity Actually Do (in practical CPA terms)

Your IR and continuity plans serve as a step-by-step playbook for what to do when something goes wrong. Instead of scrambling in panic, the firm follows a predetermined, rehearsed strategy that limits damage and speeds recovery.
  • Provides a Clear, Predefined Response Workflow. Who does what? Which systems get shut down? Who contacts clients? IR plans answer all of this before chaos begins.
  • Ensures Rapid Containment of Cyber Incidents. The firm can isolate infected devices, disable compromised accounts, and block malicious traffic immediately.
  • Enables Fast Restoration of Systems and Data. Backups, redundancies, and failover systems get your tax and audit workflows running again with minimal downtime.
  • Meets Legal, Insurance, and IRS Reporting Expectations. A well-documented IR plan helps fulfill FTC, IRS Pub 4557, and cyber insurance requirements.
  • Guides Client Communication During a Crisis. Pre-approved templates and messaging prevent miscommunication and panic.
  • Reduces Financial, Operational & Reputational Damage. Firms with strong IR plans recover in hours.
    Firms without them often lose weeks — and sometimes clients.

Expert-Recommended Tools for Incident Response Business Continuity

These are tools widely used in accounting firms, financial institutions, and other industries where uptime is critical.

Enterprise-Grade Backup, Recovery & IR Tools

  • Acronis Cyber Protect
    • Backups + ransomware defense + rapid recovery
    • Excellent for hybrid or remote work environments
  • Datto SaaS Protection
    • Protects Microsoft 365 + QuickBooks Online
    • Strong continuity features
  • Barracuda Backup
    • Simple and reliable
    • Good for small and mid-sized CPA firms
  • Sophos Rapid Response
    • On-demand IR team for active attacks
    • Ideal if a firm has no internal security lead

Low-Cost / Helpful Alternatives

(Not full continuity solutions but valuable additions.)

  • Backblaze — affordable cloud backup for desktops
  • OneDrive / Google Drive version history — basic file recovery
  • NIST Incident Response templates — free, high-quality IR frameworks
  • IRS Security Summit checklists — helpful for tax-focused controls

How CPA Firms Should Choose the Right Incident Response & Continuity Solution

Because CPA firms face regulatory, client, and deadline pressures, the solution must go beyond simple backups — it must support fast, controlled, and compliant recovery during peak periods.
Tip 1: Test backups regularly — especially before and during Tax Season. Many firms believe they have good backups until they attempt recovery. Testing is critical.
Tip 2: Choose tools with fast Recovery Time Objectives (RTOs). If the recovery time is measured in days, it’s not suitable for Tax Season workflows.
Tip 3: Select platforms that protect cloud apps, not just local servers. Most CPA firms now use:
  • Microsoft 365
  • QuickBooks Online
  • CCH Cloud
  • Tax portals

These must be backed up too.
Tip 4: Ensure the IR plan includes communication templates. Clients expect transparency — but not panic. Prepared scripts prevent missteps.
Tips 5: Partner with an MSSP or IT provider capable of leading IR execution. In the middle of an attack, your team shouldn’t be the one diagnosing and repairing.
Tip 6: Make sure your plan satisfies insurance requirements. Carriers increasingly require documentation of:
  • IR procedures
  • Backup frequency
  • Multi-layer security controls

Failing this may impact claims.

Conclusion: Building a Future-Ready HNW Advisory Model

Tax Season puts every CPA firm under extraordinary pressure. With more data moving across systems, more remote access points, and less time to react, cybersecurity becomes a leadership decision — not an IT upgrade.
By strengthening these five areas — MDR, Zero Trust, cloud access security, data encryption, and incident response — firms protect themselves against the most common tax season security risks while safeguarding client trust and ensuring regulatory compliance.
The firms that invest early stay protected. The ones that delay often discover vulnerabilities at the worst possible time.
If your firm wants to expand capacity for Tax Season without increasing risk, Unison Globus helps CPA firms build secure offshore teams with strict access controls, encrypted workflows, and IRS-aligned safeguards built into the operating model.

Strengthen your capacity without
compromising security.

Connect with Unison Globus to get started.

Categories
Tax Preparation

Capital Gains, Wealth Taxes, and Offshore Planning How High-Net-Worth Clients Should Prepare for 2026

The New Era of High-Net-Worth Tax Planning
As 2026 approaches, high-net-worth tax planning is no longer just about domestic capital gains, it’s about global wealth visibility and compliance.
The U.S. tax landscape is on the verge of a dramatic transformation. As key provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) are set to expire in 2026, tax professionals are preparing for a more complex environment where capital gains taxes, wealth taxes, and cross-border compliance will dominate the conversation. For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), this means a significant shift in how their wealth is structured, reported, and preserved.
Adding to the challenge is the growing global footprint of affluent clients. Many now hold assets across multiple jurisdictions or engage with offshore entities, requiring meticulous coordination between domestic and offshore tax planning for CPAs. Navigating these layers of complexity demands more than traditional tax preparation, it requires proactive strategy, technological precision, and regulatory awareness.
This is where Unison Globus stands apart. As a trusted leader in outsourced tax preparation for CPAs and IRS-compliant tax services, Unison Globus empowers accounting firms to stay ahead of these evolving demands. With expertise spanning 1040, 1065, 1120, and 1041 tax filing support, multi-state tax preparation services, and FATCA and FBAR compliance support, our team ensures firms can confidently serve high-net-worth clients while maintaining full regulatory compliance.
As global wealth becomes increasingly interconnected, Unison Globus tax outsourcing provides the foundation for firms to offer seamless, cross-border tax compliance and offshore tax planning for CPA firms – helping clients protect their assets and optimize their global tax position in the new 2026 tax era.

What’s Changing in 2026: Capital Gains and Wealth Tax Outlook

As the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) approaches, 2026 is set to reshape how high-net-worth clients plan and report their wealth. With potential increases in capital gains tax 2026 rates and growing political momentum behind a wealth tax 2026 USA proposal, proactive tax planning is no longer optional – it’s essential.

#1. The TCJA Sunset and Its Ripple Effect

The TCJA’s expiration will likely lead to higher top individual income tax rates and increased capital gains tax 2026 thresholds. For affluent individuals and families, this means a heavier tax burden on investment income, stock options, and long-term asset sales. Accounting firms must prepare for complex adjustments in 1040, 1065, and 1120 tax filing support, ensuring clients maintain compliance while optimizing gains realization strategies.

#2. Wealth Tax Discussions Gain Momentum

Lawmakers continue to debate new measures targeting high-value estates and unrealized gains. While the structure of a wealth tax 2026 USA remains uncertain, discussions indicate a move Atoward broader taxation of global wealth, especially for those with offshore trusts or cross-border portfolios. This creates new considerations in offshore tax planning for CPAs, requiring greater visibility into client asset structures and valuation methods.

#3. The IRS Tightens Its Focus

The IRS is intensifying efforts to monitor global wealth flows. Enhanced digital asset tracking, expanded FATCA and FBAR compliance support, and international collaboration under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) are making offshore secrecy increasingly difficult. Firms providing tax advisory for high-net-worth clients must be equipped to manage both U.S. and global reporting obligations with precision and confidentiality.

#4. The Broader Impact on Wealth Structures

These upcoming shifts will directly affect investment strategies, estate planning, and offshore holdings. High-net-worth tax planning USA will require a coordinated approach that blends domestic and offshore accounting oversight. Firms leveraging Unison Globus tax outsourcing gain access to a specialized team proficient in IRS-compliant tax services, multi-state tax preparation services, and offshore bookkeeping for U.S. accounting firms, ensuring that every element of the client’s financial picture remains compliant and strategically aligned.

Outsourced accounting for CPA firms is not just about managing workload but it’s about delivering high-level advisory value. By partnering with Unison Globus, firms can stay ahead of the curve and guide their clients through the coming wave of cross-border tax compliance and policy reform with confidence.

The Global Factor: Offshore Assets and Cross-Border Challenges

As global wealth mobility accelerates, high-net-worth individuals are increasingly managing diversified portfolios that span multiple jurisdictions. This creates tremendous opportunity but also significant compliance and operational complexity. For CPA firms, serving clients with offshore holdings requires precision, coordination, and a deep understanding of global reporting standards.

Complex Reporting Obligations: FBAR, FATCA, and Beyond

For clients with offshore holdings, U.S. tax compliance goes far beyond domestic filings. The Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) and Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) require detailed disclosure of foreign accounts and assets. Noncompliance penalties can be severe up to 50% of the account balance per violation according to IRS enforcement data.

Accounting firms must ensure that every offshore transaction, account, and entity is properly tracked and reported under these evolving regulations. This is where Unison Globus’s IRS-compliant tax outsourcing delivers a decisive advantage. Our experts provide full FATCA and FBAR compliance support, helping CPA firms maintain accuracy, minimize risk exposure, and enhance client confidence.

Valuation, Currency, and Timing Challenges

Currency conversion rates, local valuation standards, and differing fiscal year-end dates add another layer of complexity to offshore tax planning for CPA firms. Even minor discrepancies in exchange rates or reporting timelines can distort taxable income and create compliance gaps. Through outsourced accounting for CPA firms, Unison Globus ensures every offshore transaction is reconciled with precision aligning local accounting practices with U.S. reporting standards.

Overcoming Operational Barriers

Cross-border tax advisory often encounters time-zone differences, communication gaps, and inconsistent data-sharing protocols. For firms managing high-net-worth clients across multiple regions, these barriers can hinder efficiency and accuracy. Unison Globus eliminates these challenges with secure digital collaboration tools, synchronized workflows, and continuous communication support ensuring seamless offshore accounting operations across global teams.

Data Security and Multi-Jurisdictional Coordination

With global data privacy regulations tightening (including GDPR and CCPA), protecting client data across jurisdictions has never been more critical. Unison Globus integrates IRS-compliant tax services with advanced cybersecurity measures and restricted-access systems. This enables firms to confidently manage offshore bookkeeping for U.S. accounting firms and multi-jurisdictional reporting without compromising confidentiality or compliance integrity.
Pro Tip:
Integrating onshore and offshore accounting systems helps firms
maintain accuracy and transparency for clients with global portfolios.

By combining local expertise with global compliance oversight, Unison Globus empowers firms to overcome offshore accounting challenges efficiently enabling CPAs to focus on delivering strategic tax advisory for high-net-worth clients while ensuring total regulatory compliance.

Partner with Unison Globus to prepare your
high-net-worth clients for 2026.

Don’t wait for 2026 tax changes to disrupt your workflow. Connect with Unison Globus now to align your accounting firm with seamless offshore bookkeeping, FATCA/FBAR compliance support, and high-net-worth advisory services. Contact Us   at +1 (407) 807-0100 or  [email protected]

Common Pitfalls in HNW and Offshore Tax Planning

Even seasoned accounting professionals can face unexpected hurdles when managing complex high-net-worth and offshore portfolios. The growing volume of international transactions, evolving reporting standards, and the expiration of TCJA provisions make accuracy more critical than ever. Below are some of the most frequent pitfalls CPA firms encounter and how proactive management can prevent them.

#1. Inconsistent Documentation or Missing Foreign-Income Data

Incomplete or mismatched data from foreign institutions can lead to underreporting or duplication of income. With IRS-compliant tax services and structured data workflows, firms can ensure complete and verifiable documentation for every client account.

#2. Mismanagement of Foreign Capital Gains or Loss Carryforwards

Tracking and reconciling offshore capital gains, especially with fluctuating currency values, requires precision. Errors in this area can distort taxable income and affect capital gains tax 2026 calculations. Partnering with Unison Globus tax outsourcing ensures accurate gain and loss reconciliation across jurisdictions.

#3. Inefficient Communication Between U.S. and Offshore Teams

Breakdowns in communication can delay filings and increase the risk of noncompliance. Streamlined collaboration through outsourced accounting for CPA firms helps maintain real-time visibility across global workflows.

#4. Overreliance on Manual Processes During Filing Season

Manual data entry and spreadsheet-based reconciliations heighten the risk of human error. With Unison Globus’s digital tax preparation systems, firms can automate 1040, 1065, 1120, and 1041 tax filing support while maintaining consistency across complex portfolios.

#5. Non-Compliance With Global Reporting Mandates

Failure to align with FATCA, FBAR, or other cross-border requirements can expose clients to audits, fines, or double taxation. Unison Globus ensures IRS-compliant tax outsourcing with full adherence to international reporting frameworks.
Avoidable Risk:
Misreporting offshore investment gains can trigger severe IRS penalties or double taxation.
By anticipating these pitfalls, firms can deliver stronger oversight, protect client wealth, and build long-term trust all while maintaining compliance with evolving 2026 tax regulations.

Strategies for Accountants and Firms: Preparing Clients for 2026

With major tax reforms approaching, accounting firms must adopt forward-looking strategies to safeguard client portfolios and enhance advisory value. The following actionable steps can help CPAs prepare high-net-worth clients for the new era of capital gains tax 2026 and potential wealth tax 2026 USA implications.

a. Perform a 2025 Wealth Audit

Before 2026 arrives, firms should conduct a full audit of each client’s wealth profile.

  • Review investment portfolios, trust structures, and foreign holdings for compliance and optimization.
  • Identify exposure to shifting capital gains rates, wealth tax thresholds, and offshore reporting mandates.
  • Assess existing filing frameworks – 1040, 1065, 1120, and 1041 tax filing support for potential adjustments.

This proactive audit enables more accurate high-net-worth tax planning and positions clients to minimize their taxable footprint under new legislation

 


b. Enhance Global Coordination

For clients with offshore investments, seamless coordination between onshore and offshore advisors is essential.

  • Adopt cloud-based platforms to enable secure, real-time collaboration.
  • Establish structured communication and document-control protocols across global offices.
  • Integrate systems for multi-state tax preparation services and cross-border compliance management.

Unified global coordination reduces duplication, enhances transparency, and ensures every entity aligns with IRS-compliant tax services.


c. Leverage Specialized Outsourcing Partners

Partnering with a dedicated outsourcing provider allows firms to scale efficiently while maintaining quality and compliance.

  • Unison Globus offers comprehensive support for outsourced accounting for CPA firms and offshore tax planning for CPAs combining accuracy, confidentiality, and round-the-clock service coverage.
  • With deep expertise in FATCA and FBAR compliance support, our team ensures firms meet global standards while delivering superior client outcomes.

Through Unison Globus tax outsourcing, firms gain the capacity to manage complex, cross-border portfolios with precision and reliability.

 

d. Strategic planning now can significantly reduce future tax liabilities.

Strategic planning now can significantly reduce future tax liabilities.

  • Employ tax-loss harvesting, charitable gifting, and offshore trust optimization to maximize post-tax returns.
  • Use data analytics and scenario planning to model different 2026 tax outcomes and guide informed client decisions.

By taking a proactive, data-driven approach, accounting firms can strengthen their advisory role while helping clients adapt to evolving domestic and global tax environments.

Technology and Compliance: The Technology-Enhanced Future

As the 2026 tax landscape grows more intricate, automation is transforming how firms manage high-net-worth and offshore accounts. Advanced tools now track global income streams, generate real-time tax projections, and flag compliance risks across jurisdictions enhancing accuracy and efficiency. For CPA firms leveraging IRS-compliant tax outsourcing, technology enables smarter, faster decision-making while reducing manual workload.
However, technology cannot replace professional judgment. Human oversight remains vital for ensuring ethical standards, interpreting complex tax codes, and safeguarding client integrity.
Technology streamlines cross-border tax management, but accountability still rests with qualified professionals.

Unison Globus: Managing a Global HNW Portfolio Efficiently

A mid-sized CPA firm in New York managing high-net-worth clients with global portfolios faced mounting complexity multi-jurisdictional reporting, currency-based capital gains tracking, and compliance documentation ahead of the 2026 tax changes. By partnering with Unison Globus tax outsourcing, the firm gained access to a dedicated offshore team with over 19 years of industry experience, specializing in IRS-compliant tax services, multi-state tax preparation, and offshore bookkeeping for U.S. accounting firms.
Unison Globus’s ISO-certified infrastructure, AI-enabled tax preparation systems, and cloud-based workflow management tools allowed the firm to manage cross-border accounting tasks securely and efficiently. Seamless coordination across time zones, real-time status tracking, and accurate multi-currency capital gains reporting transformed their operations.
Within one tax cycle, the firm reduced errors by 35%, improved turnaround time by 40%, and strengthened client confidence through transparent, audit-ready reporting. By integrating Unison Globus’s technology-driven outsourcing solutions, the CPA firm not only optimized productivity but also elevated its advisory value for high-net-worth clients in an increasingly complex global tax environment.

Conclusion: Building a Future-Ready HNW Advisory Model

As 2026 approaches, accounting firms face a dual imperative: navigate evolving U.S. tax shifts, including capital gains tax 2026 and potential wealth tax 2026 USA, while managing increasingly complex global portfolios. High-net-worth clients demand precise, compliant, and strategically coordinated advisory services that bridge domestic and offshore tax planning.
Unison Globus serves as a strategic outsourcing and advisory ally, delivering IRS-compliant tax outsourcing, multi-state tax preparation services, and streamlined offshore bookkeeping for U.S. accounting firms. By leveraging our expertise, firms can reduce errors, enhance efficiency, and elevate client trust.
Download checklist for Capital Gains, Wealth Taxes, and Offshore Planning
Categories
Tax Preparation

Outsourcing Tax Preparation to India: A Guide for US CPA Firms

Explore how Unison Globus can help U.S. CPA firms outsource tax preparation to India for cost savings, operational scalability, and enhanced client service. Learn about the benefits of partnering with a trusted outsourcing provider for seamless, efficient tax solutions. The U.S. tax landscape has always been intricate, shaped by evolving regulations and an increasing demand for precise, timely tax preparation. As tax deadlines tighten and compliance requirements grow more complex, Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are increasingly seeking ways to streamline operations without compromising on accuracy or client service.
One of the most effective strategies to achieve this is outsourcing tax preparation to global partners, with India emerging as a leading destination for offshore tax preparation services.
In this guide, we’ll explore the growing trend of tax outsourcing solutions and examine why U.S. CPA firms are turning to India to address the challenges of tax preparation. Whether you’re considering outsourced tax services for the first time or looking to optimize your existing CPA firm outsourcing strategy, this blog will offer valuable insights into why India has become the go-to hub for outsourced tax services for CPA firms, offering unmatched expertise, cost-efficiency, and scalability during peak tax seasons.

Why India ? The Advantage of Outsourcing Tax Preparation

India has long been recognized as a global powerhouse in outsourcing, and its role in the tax preparation outsourcing sector is no exception. As U.S. CPA firms face increasing pressure to deliver timely and accurate services, India offers a strategic advantage for firms looking to optimize operations. Here’s why India is the preferred choice for tax outsourcing solutions:

Skilled Workforce with Expertise in U.S. Tax Law and IRS Compliance:

India boasts a highly educated workforce that is well-versed in the complexities of U.S. tax laws and IRS compliance. Whether it’s preparing individual returns like 1040 or business returns such as 1120 and 1065, Indian outsourcing partners bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in handling U.S.-specific tax requirements. This deep expertise ensures that tax returns are not only accurate but also aligned with ever-evolving IRS regulations.

Cost Efficiency and Scalability Without Compromising Quality:

One of the most compelling reasons CPA firms are increasingly outsourcing to India is the significant cost savings it offers. By outsourcing, firms can reduce operational overheads such as hiring full-time staff or investing in costly infrastructure – without sacrificing quality. Indian partners also offer scalability, meaning that as your firm grows or experiences spikes during busy seasons like tax season outsourcing, they can quickly ramp up capacity to meet your needs without additional stress on your in-house team.

Time Zone Advantage for Faster Turnaround and Quicker Client Response:

The time zone difference between the U.S. and India becomes a strategic asset, especially during peak periods like tax season. While U.S. firms are offline, Indian outsourcing teams can continue working on your tax returns, offering faster turnaround times and ensuring quicker responses to your client needs. This round-the-clock productivity can make a significant difference in meeting tight deadlines, ensuring your firm can deliver exceptional service even during the busiest times of the year

Secure, Paperless Workflows with Industry-Leading Data Protection:

Security is a top priority when dealing with sensitive tax information. Indian outsourcing providers are committed to maintaining the highest standards of data security. Many adhere to strict protocols like SOC 2 and ISO certifications, ensuring your clients’ sensitive data is always protected. Additionally, India-based outsourcing partners embrace paperless workflows, reducing the risk of data breaches and providing an efficient, environmentally friendly solution to handling documents.

What Services Can Be Outsourced?

When you choose to outsource tax preparation to India, you gain access to a wide range of services that help lighten your firm’s workload and expand its capabilities. Here are the key services you can confidently outsource:

Individual and Business Tax Return Preparation

Outsourcing partners can handle all aspects of tax return preparation, from individual returns like 1040 to corporate returns such as 1120 and partnership returns like 1065. With Indian teams trained in IRS compliance, you can ensure that every return is accurate, timely, and filed according to the latest tax laws.

Tax Extensions, Estimated Payments, and IRS Notice Responses

Managing critical tax deadlines is no small task. An outsourcing partner can handle the administrative burden of filing tax extensions, processing estimated payments, and responding to IRS notices, allowing your in-house team to focus on more complex client needs and strategic advisory work.

Bookkeeping, Payroll, and Sales Tax Filings

Many Indian outsourcing providers extend their services beyond tax preparation to include essential accounting functions such as bookkeeping, payroll processing, and sales tax filings. This allows CPA firms to offer a comprehensive suite of services to their clients, all without the need for additional in-house personnel.

Audit Support and Client Advisory Documentation

Outsourced teams can assist in preparing detailed audit support materials and client advisory documentation, enabling your in-house professionals to focus on high-value, strategic advisory services. Whether you need detailed reports for audits or comprehensive client plans, Indian outsourcing partners are equipped to handle these tasks efficiently and accurately.
Read Also: Top Considerations for Choosing an Offshoring Accounting and Tax Partner in India

Benefits for CPA Firms and Small Businesses

Outsourcing tax preparation provides a wealth of advantages for CPA firms and small businesses, driving efficiencies, enhancing service offerings, and improving overall profitability. By leveraging the expertise of offshore tax preparation partners, firms can experience substantial operational improvements. Here’s how:

Reduced Operational Costs

Outsourcing enables CPA firms to significantly cut operational costs. With tax outsourcing solutions, firms no longer need to hire temporary or seasonal staff, nor do they need to invest heavily in technology or infrastructure to manage peak workloads. By delegating tax preparation tasks to a reliable outsourcing partner, firms can allocate resources more efficiently and reinvest savings into areas that generate long-term growth.

Increased Capacity During Tax Season

Tax season can be a daunting period for CPA firms, as workloads spike and deadlines loom. Tax season outsourcing allows firms to scale their operations without the hassle of hiring additional full-time staff. Whether it’s preparing a higher volume of returns or handling more complex tax issues, outsourcing gives your firm the flexibility to increase capacity precisely when you need it most, ensuring your clients receive timely and accurate service.

Improved Accuracy and Compliance

With the complexity of U.S. tax codes and ever-changing IRS regulations, accuracy and compliance are non-negotiable. By partnering with an experienced outsourcing provider like Unison Globus, you benefit from a team that is highly skilled in navigating IRS rules and regulations. This expertise reduces the risk of errors and ensures your clients’ tax returns are filed with the utmost accuracy, minimizing the risk of audits, penalties, and other compliance issues.

Focus on Client Advisory and Strategic Services

Outsourcing non-core tasks like tax preparation frees up your in-house team to focus on more valuable activities. By removing the burden of routine tax filing, your professionals can dedicate more time to client advisory and strategic planning, offering higher-value services that help build long-term client relationships. With more time to invest in business consulting, financial planning, and tax-saving strategies, you can position your firm as a trusted advisor rather than just a tax preparer.

Potential Challenges and How to Mitigate Them

While outsourcing offers substantial benefits, it’s important to address potential challenges:
 
  • Data Security Concerns Data security is paramount. By partnering with a SOC 2 or ISO-certified outsourcing provider, you can ensure that your clients’ sensitive data is protected with industry-leading security measures.
  • Communication Gaps Clear communication is key. Establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and using collaboration tools like cloud-based project management platforms can mitigate any communication issues that may arise.
  • Quality Control To maintain high service standards, implement robust review processes and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure quality and timeliness of the work delivered by your outsourcing partner.

Ready to elevate your firm’s performance?

Reach out to Unison Globus today to discover how our customized tax outsourcing solutions can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and enable your firm to provide even more strategic value to your clients. Contact Us

Potential Challenges and How to Mitigate Them

While outsourcing offers substantial benefits, it’s important to address potential challenges:
  • Data Security Concerns
    Data security is paramount. By partnering with a SOC 2 or ISO-certified outsourcing provider, you can ensure that your clients’ sensitive data is protected with industry-leading security measures.
  • Communication Gaps
    Clear communication is key. Establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and using collaboration tools like cloud-based project management platforms can mitigate any communication issues that may arise.
  • Quality Control
    To maintain high service standards, implement robust review processes and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure quality and timeliness of the work delivered by your outsourcing parter.

Choosing the Right Tax Preparation Outsourcing Partner

When selecting an outsourcing partner for CPA firms, it’s essential to evaluate:
Selecting the right outsourcing partner for CPA firms is a critical decision that can directly impact your firm’s efficiency, compliance, and overall success. To ensure a smooth collaboration, you must carefully evaluate potential partners on several key criteria. Here’s what to look for:

Experience and Certifications

When considering an outsourcing partner, it’s crucial to prioritize experience in U.S. tax preparation and a deep understanding of IRS compliance. Your ideal partner should have a proven track record of handling a range of tax forms (e.g., 1040, 1120, 1065) and be up to date with the latest tax laws and regulations. Additionally, look for certifications such as SOC 2 and ISO that demonstrate a commitment to security and quality. These credentials provide assurance that your partner has the expertise to manage your clients’ sensitive financial data with the highest level of professionalism.

Client References and Case Studies

Reliability and trustworthiness are essential when outsourcing tax services. Request client testimonials, case studies, or references from firms with similar needs to gauge your potential partner’s performance and reliability. Reading about real-world experiences from other CPA firms can give you valuable insights into the outsourcing provider’s ability to meet deadlines, maintain accuracy, and scale services during peak periods like tax season.

Trial Projects for Workflow and Quality Assessment

Before entering into a long-term agreement, start with a trial project. This allows you to assess the outsourcing partner’s quality of work, communication, and workflow management in real-time. A trial project helps you identify potential issues early, whether related to turnaround times, communication gaps, or quality control. This hands-on evaluation ensures that you’re partnering with a provider who meets your expectations, offering you peace of mind before committing to a full-scale outsourcing arrangement.
Read Also:10 Proven Ways to Outsource Tax Preparation for U.S. CPA Firms

Best Practices for Outsourcing Tax Preparation to India

To ensure a seamless outsourcing experience when partnering with offshore tax services in India, following industry best practices is key. By taking a proactive and strategic approach, CPA firms can maximize the benefits of outsourcing while minimizing potential risks. Here’s how to ensure your tax outsourcing partnership is successful:

Start Early:

Timing is crucial when it comes to outsourcing tax preparation. Initiate the process early (ideally from October to December) to allow for a smooth onboarding experience. Starting early gives you and your partner ample time to establish workflows, train teams, and address any potential challenges before the busy tax season kicks in. Early preparation helps avoid the rush, ensuring quality results and timely tax return submissions.

Align Workflows and Expectations Across Teams:

Effective collaboration between your in-house team and the outsourced team is crucial. Aligning workflows, timelines, and procedures ensures that both teams understand their roles and responsibilities. This alignment prevents delays, improves efficiency, and guarantees that client deadlines are met with precision. Establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to clearly define each step in the tax preparation process, from document collection to final filing.

Utilize Secure Portals for File Sharing and Communication:

Data security is a top priority in tax preparation. To protect sensitive client data, use secure cloud-based portals for file sharing and communication. Ensure that your outsourcing partner adheres to industry-leading security standards, such as SOC 2 or ISO certifications, to safeguard your firm’s and clients’ information. A secure, paperless system not only improves efficiency but also helps mitigate data breaches, maintaining confidentiality and compliance with privacy regulations.

Schedule Regular Check-Ins and Performance Reviews:

Maintaining ongoing communication is critical to a successful outsourcing relationship. Schedule regular check-ins and performance reviews with your outsourcing partner to evaluate progress, address concerns, and make necessary adjustments. These reviews help identify potential issues early, such as workflow bottlenecks or missed deadlines, ensuring that your firm stays on track and delivers high-quality service to clients. Regular communication fosters continuous improvement and strengthens the partnership.
Read Also: Accounting Outsourcing 101: The Ultimate Guide for CPA and Accounting Firms

Why Hire an Outsourced Tax Preparation Partner in India?

Outsourcing tax preparation to India offers a strategic advantage for CPA firms looking to optimize operations, reduce costs, and enhance service offerings. By partnering with an experienced outsourcing provider like Unison Globus, your firm can leverage several key benefits, allowing you to scale effectively and provide exceptional client service. Here’s why Unison Globus should be your trusted partner for tax outsourcing solutions:
  • Strategic Advantage for Scaling: India offers flexibility in engagement models, whether you need seasonal, full-time, or project-based support.
  • Access to Specialized Tax Teams: Benefit from a team with specialized knowledge in tax preparation for CPA firms.
  • Operational Flexibility: Scale up or down depending on your needs, ensuring that you only pay for the resources you need
Read Also: Step by Step Process for Outsourcing Tax Preparation Services to Unison Globus

Why Choose Unison Globus?

Unison Globus is the ideal partner for CPA firms seeking reliable, scalable, and secure outsourcing solutions. Here’s why:

Expertise in U.S. Taxation

With a dedicated team skilled in U.S. tax codes and IRS compliance, Unison Globus ensures accurate and timely tax return preparation, minimizing errors and ensuring compliance.

Security & Compliance

Adhering to strict SOC 2 and ISO standards, Unison Globus protects your clients’ sensitive data with secure, paperless workflows, giving you peace of mind.

Tailored Solutions

Offering flexible engagement models like seasonal, full-time, or project-based — Unison Globus adapts to your firm’s needs, ensuring optimal resource allocation during peak seasons or year-round support.

Seamless Integration

Unison Globus integrates seamlessly with popular tax software like Drake, Quicken, Zoho Books, Xero, and Sage, ensuring smooth workflows and easy collaboration with your in-house team.

Long-Term Partnership

Committed to building long-term, growth-focused partnerships, Unison Globus helps your firm scale efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality and client service.

Integration with Existing Services

Outsourcing partners can easily integrate with your in-house teams and existing systems, ensuring a smooth workflow. With compatibility across major tax software (e.g., Drake, Quicken, Xero), outsourcing becomes a seamless extension of your firm’s operations.

How Outsourcing Tax Prep to India Can Transform Your CPA Firm!

The Future of Tax Preparation Outsourcing

As the tax preparation landscape evolves, the integration of automation and AI into outsourcing services is expected to grow. This will further streamline the process, reduce errors, and enhance overall efficiency, making outsourcing an even more attractive option for CPA firms.
The future of tax preparation outsourcing is set to be defined by technological advancements, with automation and artificial intelligence (AI) playing pivotal roles in shaping the industry. As the tax landscape continues to evolve, here’s how these innovations will redefine outsourcing for CPA firms:

Automation for Efficiency and Accuracy

Automation is transforming tax preparation by streamlining routine tasks such as data entry, document categorization, and tax form generation. This not only speeds up the process but also significantly reduces the risk of human error, ensuring higher accuracy and faster turnaround times. For CPA firms, this means less time spent on administrative tasks and more focus on value-added services like client advisory and strategic tax planning.

AI-Powered Decision Making

AI is enhancing the accuracy of tax preparation by leveraging machine learning to identify patterns, predict tax liabilities, and automatically flag potential compliance issues. These AI-driven insights enable outsourcing partners to deliver a higher level of precision in tax return preparation, minimizing risks related to IRS audits and tax penalties. For firms outsourcing to India, this technology allows them to meet complex tax demands with greater speed and confidence.

Improved Client Experience

AI and automation not only benefit tax professionals but also enhance the client experience. With faster processing times and more accurate returns, CPA firms can provide clients with real-time updates and proactive solutions. This, in turn, helps CPA firms differentiate themselves in a competitive market, positioning them as forward-thinking, tech-savvy partners.

Scalability and Flexibility

As automation and AI improve the efficiency of tax preparation processes, CPA firms can scale operations effortlessly without proportional increases in overhead costs. Whether it’s ramping up during tax season or managing year-round workloads, the combination of offshore outsourcing and technology ensures your firm remains agile, efficient, and ready for future growth.

The Long-Term Outlook: Sustainable Growth

In the long run, AI-driven outsourcing will allow firms to transition from purely transactional work to higher-value strategic services. By leveraging technology, CPA firms can build more sustainable, scalable business models, while also offering enhanced tax advisory and client-facing solutions. Unison Globus, with its deep integration of automation and AI tools, ensures that your outsourcing needs are future-proof, offering long-term value and growth potential.

On A Final Note

Outsourcing tax preparation to India offers significant benefits, from cost savings to operational scalability, and can enhance your firm’s ability to serve clients during the busy tax season. By choosing a reliable outsourcing partner like Unison Globus, you can improve your firm’s efficiency and focus on strategic, advisory services that add value to your clients.

Ready to take the next step?

Contact Unison Globus today to explore how our tax outsourcing solutions can help your firm scale efficiently and provide exceptional service to your clients.
Outsourcing tax preparation to India is not just a cost-saving strategy but it’s a transformative approach to boosting your firm’s efficiency, scalability, and ability to deliver exceptional client service. With the right outsourcing partner like Unison Globus, you gain access to a highly skilled team, cutting-edge technology, and flexible solutions that can help you meet peak demands during tax season while freeing up your in-house resources to focus on high-value advisory services.
As the tax landscape continues to evolve, partnering with a trusted outsourcing provider ensures that your firm stays ahead of the curve – enhancing compliance, reducing errors, and increasing capacity without the added overhead.
Categories
Tax Preparation

The CPA’s Guide to OBBBA Tax Reform and IRS Updates for 2025

When President Trump started talking about his “One Big Beautiful Bill”, many people found the phrase unusual. It sounded more like campaign-style language than the title of serious legislation. Yet here we are in 2025, and that phrase has become reality. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is now in effect, reshaping tax rules for businesses, individuals, and the professionals who guide them.
The name may raise eyebrows, but the impact is anything but lighthearted. OBBBA introduces significant shifts in deductions, credits, and IRS compliance updates, with ripple effects across nearly every aspect of tax planning. For CPAs, EAs, and accounting firms, this year is less about routine filing and more about adapting to IRS tax updates 2025 that will directly affect clients.
This blog highlights the most relevant changes, explains what they mean for business tax compliance 2025, and shows how CPAs can turn OBBBA from a challenge into an opportunity to strengthen their advisory role.

OBBBA 2025: Key IRS Tax Updates CPAs Can’t Ignore

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has shifted more than headlines. For CPAs, EAs, and accounting firms, it means real adjustments in how clients plan, report, and comply in 2025. While many provisions read like technical code changes, they translate into new conversations about deductions, credits, and business tax compliance 2025. Here are the updates that matter most.

01. Standard Deduction and Tax Brackets

The IRS inflation adjustments for 2025 raise the standard deduction to $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, and $22,500 for heads of household. The top 37 percent tax bracket now begins at $626,350 for single filers and $751,600 for joint filers. These shifts affect withholding, estimated taxes, and client expectations.

02. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)

The AMT exemption increases to $88,100 for single filers and $137,000 for joint filers. Phaseouts begin at $626,350 (single) and $1,252,700 (joint). This relieves pressure on many upper-middle-income households that previously fell into AMT.

03. Retirement Contributions

For 2025, the 401(k) and similar plan limit is $23,500, up from $23,000 in 2024. IRA limits remain at $7,000, with an unchanged $1,000 catch-up contribution for taxpayers over 50. CPAs can guide clients on maximizing retirement-related tax deductions for seniors and working professionals.

04. New Deductions for Working Americans

OBBBA introduces two first-time provisions that directly affect wage earners:
  • Overtime Deduction: Employees may deduct up to $12,500 (single) or $25,000 (joint) in overtime pay, subject to income limits.
  • Car Loan Interest Deduction: Up to $10,000 annually may be deducted for interest on qualifying vehicle loans issued after December 31, 2024.

Both deductions have income phaseouts, making them prime areas for CPA tax advisory and planning strategies.

05. Expanded Senior Relief

Seniors aged 65 and older now qualify for an additional $6,000 deduction per individual, in addition to the regular extra standard deduction. The benefit phases out for higher-income taxpayers but will be valuable for many retirees and their advisors.

06. Business Investment Incentives

OBBBA restores 100 percent bonus depreciation for qualified property placed in service after January 19, 2025. This is a significant opportunity for business tax planning strategies tied to capital expenditures.
Note: Section 179 expensing limits have been raised under OBBBA, but the IRS has not yet released final thresholds. Early commentary points to a $2.5 million cap with a $4 million phaseout, but firms should wait for official confirmation before applying these figures.

Quick Reference: OBBBA & IRS 2025 Highlights

Provision 2025 Update
Standard Deduction $15,000 single, $30,000 joint, $22,500 HoH
Top Bracket 37% above $626,350 single / $751,600 joint
AMT Exemption $88,100 single / $137,000 joint
401(k) Limit $23,500
Overtime Deduction $12,500 single / $25,000 joint
Car Loan Interest Up to $10,000 annually
Senior Bonus Deduction $6,000 per eligible taxpayer
Bonus Depreciation 100% restored after Jan 19, 2025
Section 179 Expensing Raised, final IRS numbers pending*
*Pending confirmation: reported increase to $2.5M cap with ~$4M phaseout.
Note: All figures in the table below are based on the IRS’s official inflation adjustments and published guidance for tax year 2025. These updates, along with new provisions under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), form the basis for strategic tax planning this season.

What These Changes Mean for CPA Firms

OBBBA is more than a set of new deductions and credits. For firms already balancing tight deadlines and rising client expectations, these changes compound existing challenges. The effect is less about memorizing thresholds and more about how firms reconfigure their approach to compliance, planning, and client service.

01. A Shift from Filing to Forecasting

Clients will not see OBBBA as a set of technical adjustments. They will want to know, “How does this affect my tax bill?” and “What should I do differently this year?” That expectation moves CPAs from passive compliance into active forecasting. To deliver, firms need to embed CPA tax planning 2025 into their workflows, not treat it as an afterthought.

02. Increased Advisory Pressure

The overtime deduction, car loan interest deduction, and senior bonus relief are headline-grabbing changes. They may not apply universally, but they will trigger a wave of client questions. Firms that only answer reactively risk getting buried. Firms that prepare structured CPA tax advisory guidance in advance can use these provisions as touchpoints to deepen client relationships.

03. Compliance Complexity That Cannot Be Ignored

Every inflation adjustment and expanded deduction brings new documentation and substantiation requirements. For example, the overtime deduction requires proof of qualifying wages, and the car loan deduction comes with conditions around timing and loan type. Firms that tighten their business tax compliance 2025 processes will protect clients from penalties and avoid costly rework during audit season.

04. The Capacity Challenge

These changes arrive in a season when firms are already short on staff and heavy on deadlines. More nuanced planning plus expanded compliance checks mean more hours. Without relief, firms risk slipping into “deadline triage mode.” This is where a robust CPA firm tax planning checklist and smart resource allocation become survival tools, not nice-to-haves.

05. A Strategic Opportunity

Reforms of this scale always create winners and laggards. Firms that adopt new business tax planning strategies early can show clients they are proactive, authoritative, and indispensable. Those that treat OBBBA as “just another set of forms” may survive filing season but will miss the chance to differentiate in a crowded market.

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Your Tax Season Strategy?

Unison Globus delivers scalable, expert-driven tax preparation services tailored for CPA firms navigating OBBBA and IRS compliance updates. From high-volume returns to strategic planning support, we help you stay ahead of deadlines and client expectations—without overhead.

Let’s simplify complexity and elevate your advisory impact. Talk to our team →

Staying Ahead: A CPA Tax Planning Checklist for 2025

Checklists for CPAs can’t just be boxes to tick. To be useful in 2025, they need to anchor firm-wide strategy while addressing the granular compliance details One Big Beautiful Bill Act 2025 (OBBBA) brings. Think of this as both a planning framework and a capacity safeguard for your team.

01. Translate OBBBA Into Firm Workflows

Do not just distribute IRS memos. Recode the new rules directly into your templates, tax prep software, and client intake processes. For example, add prompts for overtime and car loan interest deductions at the onboarding stage so your staff capture eligibility early. This reduces rework later and strengthens business tax compliance 2025.

02. Segment Clients by Impact

Not every client will benefit from every provision. Seniors may be eligible for the new $6,000 deduction, while small businesses are more affected by bonus depreciation and Section 179 changes. Build segmented CPA firm tax planning checklists that flag which provisions matter most by client type. This avoids blanket communications and shows advisory depth.

03. Stress-Test Tax Planning Scenarios

Run “what if” models for clients who might be on the margin of eligibility. For example, phaseouts on the overtime deduction, senior bonus deduction, or tax credits for families and small businesses will catch some by surprise. Using IRS-approved tax strategies for 2025, show clients how income timing, retirement contributions, or entity decisions could keep them inside the benefit window.

04. Reallocate Firm Capacity Early

OBBBA amplifies the paperwork load. Waiting until March to scramble for staff is a losing strategy. Assign senior staff to high-value advisory conversations and shift routine compliance to outsourced tax preparation or offshore teams. This ensures partners are free to focus on CPA tax advisory rather than overtime data entry.

05. Elevate Client Communication

Do not bury these updates in fine print. Clients will hear about overtime deductions and car loan interest breaks on the news. They expect their CPA to explain how it applies—or does not—to them. Use simple client-facing explainers, with examples tied to actual planning strategies. This positions you as proactive, not reactive.

OBBBA’s Effect on Small Business Tax Compliance

For small business owners, OBBBA is less about legislative fine print and more about how their everyday financial decisions will be taxed. CPAs are the ones responsible for turning the new rules into practical guidance. Here are the keyways the Act is reshaping small business tax compliance in 2025:
  • Capital investments now require strategic timing. The restoration of 100 percent bonus depreciation creates strong incentives for immediate purchases. However, not every client should expense everything at once. CPAs must run side-by-side scenarios to determine whether accelerating deductions in 2025 benefits the business more than spreading them across future growth years.
  • Uncertainty around Section 179 calls for cautious planning. While OBBBA raises the expensing limit, final IRS thresholds are not yet confirmed. A business that assumes a $2.5 million cap without verification risks misalignment in its tax strategy. The best approach is for CPAs to prepare “if/then” models so clients are ready regardless of where the IRS finalizes the limit. This is a key tax law change for accounting firms to monitor.
  • Expanded credits will not benefit every business equally. Family-owned entities and smaller firms may qualify for new relief, but eligibility rules vary by structure and income. A sole proprietor may see one outcome, while an S corporation experiences another. CPAs should map credits to client profiles rather than assuming broad applicability. This is where business tax planning strategies become essential.
  • Compliance errors will carry higher costs. The overtime deduction and car loan interest deduction are appealing but come with strict substantiation requirements. Casual or incomplete recordkeeping by small business owners could lead to disallowed deductions or even audits. Firms should establish clear documentation processes for clients before the busy season begins. These are critical IRS compliance updates for accounting firms.
  • Proactive advisory is the real differentiator. Small business owners will hear about “new deductions” in the news and expect their CPA to explain whether they qualify. Firms that translate the fine print into actionable business tax planning strategies will strengthen client trust, while those that stick to transactional filing risk being seen as replaceable. This is the impact of OBBBA on small businesses.

Tackling OBBBA with the Right Support

The real challenge of OBBBA is not the wording of the law. It is the strain it places on CPA firms that already operate under intense deadlines and capacity limits. To meet the demands of tax season 2025, firms need more than awareness. They need a strategy for support that combines people, process, and technology.

01. Strengthening Operational Readiness

The new tax deductions for businesses and credits introduced by OBBBA require tighter workflows than in past seasons. Overtime and car loan interest deductions will only stand if the documentation is complete. Bonus depreciation will need to be tracked and applied consistently. Firms that update their processes and integrate the changes into their systems now will face fewer disputes with the IRS later. This is less about memorizing new thresholds and more about building operational discipline into compliance.

02. Designing Capacity With Intention

Tax reform has a way of exposing the limits of a firm’s staffing model. CPAs cannot afford to have senior staff tied up in routine preparation when clients are asking bigger questions about planning and eligibility. Building capacity through outsourced tax preparation allows firms to protect their experts’ time. In practice, this means partners can focus on scenario modeling and strategic advice while external teams absorb the workload of high-volume compliance.

03. Managing Risk Through Stronger Systems

Every new provision under OBBBA comes with greater risk of misinterpretation or misreporting. A client who casually claims overtime deductions without proper records is not just creating a filing error—they are creating exposure. Firms that build structured review systems, train staff on the new provisions, and monitor IRS guidance closely will reduce that exposure significantly. Risk management must be proactive, not reactive.

04. Protecting Client Relationships

For clients, the story of OBBBA is simple: they hear about “new deductions” on the news and expect their CPA to explain how it applies to them. The firms that can respond quickly, in plain language, will stand out. This is not just about compliance but about perception. Clients are evaluating whether their CPA is keeping up with tax law changes for accounting firms and whether they are getting guidance, not just filings. Firms that invest in support now will protect and even elevate their advisory reputation.

Why Unison Globus?

OBBBA has made 2025 a year where capacity and precision matter more than ever. Many providers can offer additional hands, but few can deliver the depth of expertise CPA firms actually need. This is where Unison Globus stands apart.

Specialists for CPAs and Firms

We do not serve individuals directly. Our services are built exclusively for CPAs, EAs, and accounting firms. That means every workflow, from tax preparation to review, is designed to integrate with your practice and meet the compliance demands of U.S. regulations.

Scalable Support When You Need It Most

Tax season deadlines do not wait. With our offshore staffing model, you can expand your team’s capacity quickly without the overhead of hiring and training. Whether it is high-volume compliance work or review-ready tax returns, we help firms deliver on a scale.

Quality You Can Rely On

Our teams are trained in U.S. tax law and updated continuously on IRS changes, including those introduced under OBBBA. Processes are built with IRS compliance support at the core, so you can trust that every file is accurate, consistent, and audit ready.

More Time for Advisory

By taking on routine preparation, Unison Globus gives firms the ability to redirect senior staff toward strategic planning and client-facing conversations. This is where firms strengthen relationships, expand advisory services, and demonstrate value beyond compliance.

Proven Track Record

We have supported firms across the United States through past tax reforms, capacity crunches, and busy season bottlenecks. The result is consistent: our partners protect compliance, keep clients satisfied, and find new room to grow.

Conclusion

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has raised the stakes for tax season 2025. For CPAs and accounting firms, the challenge is not only to stay compliant but to deliver clarity and confidence to clients in a shifting landscape.
Firms that prepare early, structure their capacity wisely, and keep pace with IRS guidance will turn OBBBA from a compliance burden into an opportunity to strengthen client trust. With Unison Globus as your partner, you gain the scale, expertise, and support needed to stay ahead of change while focusing on the advisory work that sets your firm apart.
Let’s make OBBBA an opportunity, not a hurdle. Connect with Unison Globus today.

FAQs: CPA Tax Planning & OBBBA 2025

OBBBA is a comprehensive tax reform law that introduces new deductions, credits, and compliance updates for individuals and businesses. It significantly impacts CPA firms, especially in areas like bonus depreciation, overtime deductions, and senior tax relief.

CPA firms must adapt to new IRS compliance updates, including changes to standard deductions, AMT thresholds, and documentation requirements. The law shifts the focus from routine filing to strategic tax planning and advisory services.

A robust checklist should cover client segmentation, workflow updates, capacity planning, and proactive communication. It should also include guidance on IRS-approved tax strategies for 2025, especially under OBBBA.

Businesses benefit from restored 100% bonus depreciation, increased Section 179 expensing limits, and potential tax credits for families and small businesses. These changes require strategic timing and documentation.

Yes. OBBBA introduces deductions for overtime pay and car loan interest, subject to income phaseouts. These are designed to offer tax relief for working Americans and require proper substantiation.

Seniors aged 65+ can claim an additional $6,000 deduction per individual, on top of the standard senior deduction. This is part of expanded tax deductions for seniors under OBBBA.

Firms should integrate new rules into their systems, train staff, and establish review protocols. Staying current with IRS tax changes and documentation standards is essential to avoid penalties.

Misreporting deductions like overtime or car loan interest can lead to audits or disallowed claims. CPA firms must ensure clients meet eligibility and maintain proper records to manage risk.
Small businesses must reassess capital investment timing, credit eligibility, and documentation practices. The impact of OBBBA on small businesses is significant, requiring tailored planning strategies.
Strategies include income timing, entity restructuring, retirement contributions, and leveraging new deductions. CPA firms should use scenario modeling to help clients maximize benefits.
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Home Tax Preparation

Tax Extension 2025: IRS Guidelines and CPA Strategies Before September 15

As the 2025 tax season moves into its final phase, CPAs and accounting firms are preparing for one of the most critical deadlines of the year: the IRS tax extension deadline on September 15, 2025, applies to partnerships and S corporations that filed Form 7004. For individuals and corporations, this date also marks the third quarter estimated tax payment deadline not the extension filing deadline. While extensions give taxpayers more time to file, they also come with strict requirements, evolving IRS guidelines, and increased compliance risks.
For firms, this period is not just about paperwork. It is about safeguarding clients from late filing penalties, ensuring compliance with both federal and state tax rules, and staying ahead of IRS notices such as CP59 and CP59SN. With new provisions like disaster relief tax extensions, CPAs must approach this season with precision.
This guide from Unison Globus provides a clear breakdown of the IRS tax extension process for 2025, covering forms like Form 4868 for individuals and Form 7004 for businesses, key deadlines, common mistakes to avoid, and best practices for firms managing heavy extension workloads.
By following these guidelines, CPAs and EAs can ensure clients file accurately, minimize penalties, and maintain peace of mind before September 15.

What Is a Tax Extension?

A tax extension gives taxpayers additional time to file their return, but it does not extend the deadline for paying taxes owed. This distinction is where many clients get confused, and CPAS must explain the difference clearly.
The IRS provides two primary forms for filing an extension in 2025:
  • Form 4868: For individual taxpayers who need extra time to file their personal income tax return.
  • Form 7004: For businesses such as S-Corporations, Partnerships, and certain trusts that require more time to submit their returns.
When approved, an extension typically grants up to six additional months to file. However, all tax payments are still due by the original deadline, which is April 15 for individuals and March 17 for most businesses.
Failing to pay by the original deadline can trigger late payment penalties and interest, even if the return is filed on time after the extension. This is why CPAs should guide clients to make estimated payments alongside the extension request.
Read Also: CPA Tax Calendar: Key Deadlines for Estimated Payments and Extensions 

Key IRS Guidelines for 2025

Here are the critical updates CPAs and accounting firms must keep in mind for the 2025 extension season:

01. Final Federal Filing Deadlines

  • October 15, 2025: Last date for individual taxpayers who filed Form 4868 to submit their extended 2024 income tax returns.
  • September 15, 2025: Deadline for extended business returns filed with Form 7004, which applies to entities such as S Corporations and Partnerships.

02. Filing Preferences and Payment Reminders

  • The IRS recommends e-filing with direct deposit because it reduces errors, shortens refund times, and provides digital confirmation of filing.
  • An extension gives more time to file but not more time to pay. Taxes owed are still due by the original deadline of April 15, 2025, for individuals and March 17, 2025, for most businesses. Payments made after these dates may incur penalties and interest.

03. IRS Notices and Compliance Checks

  • The IRS has started sending Notice CP59SN to taxpayers whose returns are not on file. CPAs should help clients verify whether their extension was received and respond quickly if action is required.
  • In some cases, taxpayers may receive notice despite having filed correctly. CPAs can assist by checking IRS transcripts or e-Services and responding with proof of extension filing.

04. Disaster Relief Extensions

  • The IRS continues to provide extra time for taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas. For instance, some affected regions now have deadlines extended into early 2026.
  • A July 2025 tax relief law introduced a streamlined process that allows eligible individuals and businesses in disaster areas to automatically receive a 120-day postponement of filing and payment deadlines.

05. Heightened IRS Scrutiny

  • The IRS has increased its focus on non-filers and late payers for the 2025 season. Penalties for late payment are typically 0.5 percent of the unpaid tax per month, up to 25 percent, and interest accrues until the balance is settled.
  • CPAs should advise clients to make estimated tax payments when filing for an extension. Paying as much as possible by the original deadline helps reduce both penalties and interest.

Clarifying the September 15 Deadline: Extension vs. Estimated Payments

  • For Businesses: September 15, 2025, is the final deadline for S Corporations and Partnerships that filed Form 7004 to submit their extended 2024 tax returns.
  • For Individuals: This date is not the extension deadline. It is the third quarter estimated tax payment deadline for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and others with income not subject to withholding.
  • For Corporations: Calendar-year C Corporations must also make their Q3 estimated tax payment by this date.

Reminder: The deadline to file an extended individual tax return is October 15, 2025, if Form 4868 was submitted by April 15.

Read Also: S Corporation vs C Corporation: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Updated IRS Deadlines for 2025: What CPAs Must Know

The IRS has made key adjustments to 2025 tax deadlines that CPAs should be aware of:
Entity Type Form Original Deadline Extension Deadline Change/Note
S Corporations 1120-S March 15, 2025 September 15, 2025 March 15 is a Saturday → deadline moved to March 17, 2025
Partnerships 1065 March 15, 2025 September 15, 2025 Same as above
C Corporations 1120 April 15, 2025 October 15, 2025 No change
Individuals 1040 + 4868 April 15, 2025 October 15, 2025 No change
Multi-member LLCs 1065 March 15, 2025 September 15, 2025 Deadline moved to March 17
Single-member LLCs 1040 + Sch C April 15, 2025 October 15, 2025 No change
Note: These deadlines apply to calendar-year filers. Fiscal-year filers may have different due dates.

Also, under the July 2025 tax relief law, taxpayers in federally declared disaster areas automatically receive a 120-day extension for both filing and payment.

Read Also: Key IRS Tax Forms and Updates for Smooth Filing

How CPAs Can Prevent Common Mistakes During Tax Extension Season

During extension season, errors are less about forms and more about habits. CPAs can prevent costly missteps by:
  • Setting clear expectations: Many clients believe an extension solves everything. A quick upfront explanation prevents surprises about payments or penalties later.
  • Providing estimated tax guidance: Even when documents are incomplete, offering a payment estimate reduces penalty exposure and eases client anxiety.
  • Encouraging early action: Proactive outreach helps avoid the last-minute rush that often leads to missed deadlines or overlooked details.
  • Standardizing communication on notices: A simple process for uploading IRS letters into a secure portal keeps nothing from slipping through the cracks.
  • Monitoring multi-state clients: Centralized checklists help ensure that state-level filings and payments are handled alongside federal obligations.
Implementing these proactive steps can ensure smoother filing and prevent surprises for clients – making CPAs an indispensable resource during tax extension season. Reframing extension season as a proactive process helps CPAs keep clients compliant and reinforce their role as trusted advisors.
Read Also: Avoid 10 Common Accounting Mistakes with Expert Tips USA

IRS Payment Options for Clients Who Owe

For many taxpayers, filing under extension does not eliminate the need to pay. If clients still owe taxes, CPAs can guide them through the following IRS-approved payment solutions:

01. IRS Direct Pay

  • A secure online tool that allows direct payments from a checking or savings account.
  • No fees and immediate confirmation provided.

02. Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)

  • A reliable option for businesses and frequent payers.
  • Requires enrollment but allows scheduling future payments.

03. Online Payment Agreements

  • Ideal for taxpayers unable to pay in full.
  • Installment plans spread payments out and reduces the risk of enforced collection.

04. Short-Term Payment Extensions

  • The IRS may grant up to 120 extra days to pay in full.
  • Interest still accrues, but late payment penalties are reduced.

05. Credit or Debit Card Payments

  • Payments can be made via IRS-authorized processors.
  • Transaction fees apply but offer flexibility when other funds are tight.
Encouraging clients to pay as much as possible by the original deadline helps reduce penalties and interest. CPAs can play a proactive role by matching the right payment method to each client’s financial situation.

Need expert help with
your extension workload?

Unison Globus offers tailored CPA tax extension support with secure, scalable offshore staffing designed to ease peak-season pressures.

Contact Unison Globus today to discover how our offshore solutions can help your firm stay compliant, efficient, and stress-free this extension season. Get in touch now

State vs. Federal Tax Extensions: What You Need to File on Time

A federal tax extension does not automatically apply at the state level. CPAs should be aware of the key differences:
Aspect Federal Tax Extension State Tax Extension
Forms Form 4868 (Individuals) and Form 7004 (Businesses) Many states require their own extension forms, or accept the federal form (e.g., Form 4868 for individuals), but state-specific forms and processes must be checked.
Deadlines September 15, for businesses (Form 7004) and October 15, for individuals (Form 4868) State deadlines vary. While some states align with federal deadlines (e.g., September 15), others may have earlier or later due dates. CPAs should verify state-specific deadlines.
Payments Taxes due by April 15 (individuals) or March 15 (businesses), even with an extension State balances are calculated separately. Payments are generally due by the state’s original deadline, although some states may offer different rules for payment extensions or allow grace periods.
Automatic Coverage Federal extension applies nationwide Federal extension applies nationwide, but not all states accept it automatically. Separate state extension forms may be required.
Multi-State Clients Single federal extension covers all taxpayers CPAs must track each jurisdiction’s rules to ensure full multi-state tax compliance, as states may have different forms, deadlines, or rules.

CPA Tip: Avoid confusion between the September 15 estimated tax payment deadline and the October 15 individual extension deadline. Many clients mistakenly believe they have until September 15 to file their personal returns, when in fact, this is the deadline for estimated tax payments for individuals. The actual deadline to file an extended individual return is October 15, 2025. Clear communication with clients is essential to prevent penalties for late filing or missed payments.

Best Practices for Accounting Firms During Extension Season

Managing the September 15 deadline can feel like a second peak of tax season. Firms that stay proactive and organized can reduce stress while improving client service. Here are key strategies:
  • Communicate early and often: Remind clients about the upcoming deadlines and clarify what an extension does and does not cover.
  • Use secure portals: Collect and share documents through encrypted platforms to avoid delays and protect client data.
  • Standardize checklists: Maintain an internal CPA checklist for September 15 deadlines to track forms, payments, and state-level requirements.
  • Prioritize complex clients: Handle multi-state or high-liability cases first to avoid bottlenecks later in the season.
  • Leverage technology: Automation tools for reminders, e-filing, and document tracking can help streamline your accounting firm extension strategy.
  • Consider outsourcing: Offshore tax preparation services allow firms to manage high volumes without sacrificing accuracy, especially when deadlines converge.
By following these best practices, firms can turn the extension season from a stress point into an opportunity to reinforce client trust and efficiency.

How Unison Globus Supports CPAs During Tax Extension Season

Tax extension season often feels like a second busy season, with heavy workloads and tight deadlines converging in August and September. This is where Unison Globus steps into provides comprehensive support for CPA firms across the U.S.

Our offshore teams specialize in:

  • Expert tax preparation for forms including 1040, 1120, 1065, 1041, and 1099
  • IRS-compliant documentation that minimizes errors and ensures smooth audits
  • Secure, paperless workflows with encrypted client portals to streamline communication
  • Scalable staffing models to help firms handle seasonal surges without increasing overhead

With offshore tax support for CPAs, firms gain the capacity to:

  • Meet the September 15 tax extension deadline with confidence
  • Reduce turnaround times during peak filing periods
  • Stay compliant with both IRS extension filing 2025 requirements and state-level rules
  • Focus more on advisory and client strategy instead of routine paperwork
At Unison Globus, we act as an extension of your firm, delivering the accuracy, efficiency, and peace of mind you need during one of the most demanding times of the year.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for a Stress-Free Extension Season

As the September 15, 2025 tax extension deadline rapidly approaches, CPAs and accounting firms must act quickly to ensure clients remain compliant and avoid penalties. Staying ahead of IRS guidelines, tracking state-specific requirements, and advising clients on payment options are critical to managing this busy season effectively.
By focusing on clear communication, secure workflows, and well-organized checklists, firms can turn this high-pressure period into an opportunity to build stronger client relationships. Leveraging expert support, whether through advanced technology or specialized offshore teams – ensures that no return is missed and compliance remains intact.
Categories
Accounting Tax Preparation

Get Ready for Tax Season: Your Complete Preparation Checklist

For CPAs, EAs, and accounting firms, tax season is the most demanding time of the year. With numerous deadlines, evolving tax laws, and high client expectations, preparation is key to ensuring smooth operations. By staying organized and leveraging the right tools, firms can increase efficiency, reduce stress, and enhance client satisfaction.
At Unison Globus, we specialize in providing outsourced tax preparation, bookkeeping, and CPA support services to help firms navigate the complexities of tax season with ease. Our CPA services are designed to assist accounting firms in managing high-volume tax filings, ensuring compliance, and optimizing operational efficiency.
This guide provides a step-by-step tax preparation checklist, covering key deadlines, essential document organization, technology integration, tax law updates, client communication strategies, and workload management tips. Whether you’re an independent CPA or part of a growing accounting firm, this checklist will help you stay ahead during tax season.

Understanding Key Deadlines

The accounting industry has witnessed a seismic transformation in recent years, shaped by rapid technological advancements, evolving client expectations, and an increased emphasis on advisory services. These changes present both challenges and opportunities for CPA firms to redefine their roles and enhance their value proposition.

01. Examples of Non-Accounting Talent

Missing tax deadlines can result in consequences and unnecessary stress. Here are some critical dates to remember:
  • January 31, 2025 – Deadline for employers to issue W-2s and 1099s to employees and independent contractors.
  • March 15, 2025 – Filing deadline for S corporations (Form 1120-S) and partnerships (Form 1065).
  • Marketing Professionals: Experts in branding, client outreach, and digital marketing to help firms grow their client base.
  • April 15, 2025 – Individual tax returns (Form 1040), C corporation tax returns (Form 1120), and first quarter estimated tax payments are due.
  • June 15, 2025 – Second quarter estimated tax payments due.
  • September 15, 2025 – Third quarter estimated tax payments and extended deadlines for S corporations and partnerships.
  • October 15, 2025 – Final deadline for extended individual tax returns (Form 1040).
Read Also: Tax Planning for Individuals: The Proven Guide for 2025

02. State Tax Deadlines

Each state has its own tax deadlines and requirements. CPAs and accounting firms should verify:
  • State-specific tax filing dates
  • Quarterly estimated tax deadlines
  • Unique state regulations affecting deductions, credits, and compliance
By maintaining an updated state tax deadline calendar, firms can proactively manage client filings and avoid last-minute complications.

Organizing Client Information

01. Gathering Necessary Documents

Clients should provide all relevant financial documents in a timely manner. A tax document checklist should include:
  • Income-related documents: W-2s, 1099s, K-1s, and investment statements
  • Expense records: Mortgage interest (Form 1098), business expense receipts, and medical bills
  • Tax compliance forms: Prior-year tax returns, state-specific tax documents, and IRS correspondence
Tip: Encourage clients to use secure portals for document submission to ensure data security and streamline the collection process.

02. Implementing a Document Management System

A digital document management system simplifies tax season preparation by:
  • Reducing paper clutter and improving accessibility
  • Enhancing data security with encrypted storage
  • Facilitating quick retrieval of client records

03. Recommended tools:

  • Canopy – Secure cloud-based tax document storage
  • Drake Documents – Integrated solution for CPAs
  • Smart Vault – Easy file sharing for accountants

Investing in the best document management software for accountants ensures seamless client data organization.

Section 3: Leveraging Technology

01. Tax Preparation Software

  • Choosing the right tax software is crucial for accuracy and efficiency. Best tax preparation software for 2025 should offer:
  • Automated tax calculations for reduced errors
  • Seamless e-filing for federal and state tax returns
  • Client portals for secure document exchange
Top picks for CPAs:
  • UltraTax CS – Comprehensive tax compliance
  • Lacerte – Best for complex tax returns
  • Drake Tax – Affordable and user-friendly

02. Automation Tools for Efficiency

Using tax automation tools can help accounting firms streamline repetitive tasks, including:

  • Automated data entry – Reduces manual errors
  • AI-powered tax review – Identifies compliance issues
  • Automated client reminders – Keeps clients on track Facilitating quick retrieval of client records
Recommended tax automation tools:
  • TaxDome – CRM & workflow automation
  • Xero Tax – Cloud-based tax automation
  • Karbon – AI-driven accounting workflow
By integrating tax software for CPAs and automation tools, firms can save time, enhance accuracy, and improve client service.
Read Also: Assurance in Numbers: Dissecting Internal and External Audits During Tax Season

Staying Informed of Tax Law Changes

Recruiting the right talent requires a thoughtful strategy:

01. Federal Tax Law Updates for 2025

Recent IRS tax law changes impact deductions, credits, and filing requirements. Key updates include:

  • Changes to standard deductions and tax brackets
  • Modifications to business tax credits
  • New IRS compliance requirements
  • Stay informed: Subscribe to IRS updates and leverage tax research platforms like Checkpoint or Bloomberg Tax.

02. State Tax Law Changes

Tax regulations vary by state, with new laws affecting:

  • State-specific deductions and credits
  • Compliance rules for remote workers
  • Updates on corporate tax rates
Tip: Use state tax tracking tools like Avalara or CCH Answer Connect to stay up to date.

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Enhancing Client Communication

01. Effective Communication Strategies

Clear and proactive communication helps manage client expectations. Best practices include:
  • Sending tax reminders via email or text
  • Hosting webinars on tax law changes
  • Providing FAQs to address common tax concerns
Recommended tools for client communication:
  • Practice Ignition – Automates client engagement
  • Slack or Microsoft Teams – Improves internal and client collaboration
Client Education Resources Educating clients about tax season improves compliance and trust. Provide:
  • Downloadable tax preparation checklists
  • Informative tax planning newsletters
  • One-on-one tax season consultations
Tip: Offer a “Subscribe for Tax Tips” option to keep clients engaged year-round.

Managing Workload and Stress

01. Time Management Techniques

To avoid burnout, CPAs and accounting firms should:
  • Prioritize high-value tasks and batch similar work
  • Set realistic client expectations
  • Take breaks to maintain focus

02. Delegation and Outsourcing

Outsourcing non-core tasks can help firms stay efficient. Consider:
  • Outsourcing tax preparation to reliable third-party providers
  • Hiring seasonal staff for administrative work
  • Using virtual assistants for appointment scheduling

Why outsource?

  • Reduces workload during peak season
  • Improves turnaround time for clients
  • Allow firms to focus on high-level advisory services
Read Also: Taming Tax Season: Solutions for CPA Firms Facing Talent Shortages

Conclusion

Preparing for tax season requires a proactive approach. By staying ahead of deadlines, implementing efficient document management, leveraging tax software, keeping up with tax law changes, and maintaining strong client communication, CPAs and accounting firms can streamline their workflow and enhance client satisfaction.
With the right strategies, tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, let Unison Globus assist you optimize your tax preparation process!s

Master TAX Season - Your Ultimate Preparation Checklist Get Ready for Tax Season