Return comparison

Once the workbook is ready and you've prepared the return in your software, upload the return to have it tied to the workpapers line by line. It's a tool: your firm evaluates every finding against the source documents and makes every call on the return.

1. Print the return to PDF from your software, every page: forms, schedules, statements, worksheets and diagnostics.
2. Get the client's signed consent to disclosure first. Federal law (§7216) requires it before a prepared return is shared. Print it from the link on the upload form (it's prefilled with your firm and the client); many firms attach it to the engagement letter as a separate page.
3. On the engagement, open Return comparison, check the box confirming the consent is on file, and upload the return. Screenshots of input screens or diagnostics are optional and help.
4. Each finding says what's wrong, the amount, and how to fix it in your software (screen, field, code). Give each the same dispositions as Open Items, then press Process. Points sent to the client go into the client email; passed points leave a paper trail on the workbook's Comparison-Findings tab.
5. Upload the corrected return for a re-comparison.

Price: a 1040 comparison is $29 and each re-comparison $15; an entity comparison is $49 and each re-comparison $25. A free-trial workbook includes its first comparison. Clear every finding before sending the next version.

The first time you download a workbook or comparison report, you'll see its Basis of Preparation (how it was generated and what your preparer still decides) and confirm you've read it.

Questions about a fix? Use Ask a question on the engagement and paste a screenshot of the screen you're on.