How Outsourced Tax Work Is Priced

Two quotes for the same work can look very different and cost the same, or look the same and cost very different amounts once review time and rework are counted. Understanding the model behind a quote is the first step to comparing them.

The common models

• Per return or per engagement. A price for each defined piece of work. Simple to budget, and it needs a clear definition of what counts as a standard return and what costs more.
• Hourly. Flexible for work that is hard to define, and it needs visibility of hours to stay predictable.
• Dedicated team member. A monthly price for a person who works only for your firm. It suits steady volume, and the value depends on keeping them busy all year.
• Managed monthly service. A fixed monthly price for recurring accounting work across a group of clients, delivered to a calendar.

What drives the price

• The type and complexity of the work.
• The condition of source documents and books when the work starts.
• The software, and whether work happens in your systems.
• The review standard: what your reviewers expect to receive.
• Turnaround, and how evenly work arrives through the year.

Costs to ask about

1. Onboarding and set up.
2. Rework after review notes: included, or charged?
3. Rush turnaround near deadlines.
4. Software licences, access and security tools.
5. Time spent on questions and handovers.

Comparing quotes fairly

The number that matters is the total cost of a reviewed return ready to sign: the provider's price plus the hours your own reviewers spend, including the time spent on rework. A lower price that doubles review time is not cheaper.

1. Ask each provider to quote the same trial set of real work.
2. Record your reviewers' time on each result.
3. Count review notes and rework, not only the invoice.
4. Check what the scope excludes, in writing.

Our services start from US$9 per hour. Your rate, what it covers and how it is billed are set out in the engagement agreement before anything starts. The pricing page explains how we quote.

General information for accounting professionals, not legal or tax advice. Confirm requirements against current law and IRS guidance.