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Herman Cain calls that the "SIN" tactics -- sidestep the issue, ignore facts, and name-call.

Personally, I advise people to shoot for a zero sum return. However, if they tell me they need a refund for whatever reason, I am perfectly happy to help them plan that way. I don't think it is always about what I thinkt is the best choice - it is about what the client needs. And for some people, they can't save if they get their hands on the money so withholding for taxes is one way to enforce saving.

>>And don't forget, it has long been an axiom of our profession that a refund suggests our own failure to properly advise the client.<< How much interest would a large refund draw if put into savings? How many people would actually put the difference into savings? My experience has been that the vast majority of people would just spend the difference and have nothing to show for it. Actually, I think having extra withheld is an excellent way of forced savings. I have known people who overpay and use that for their vacation (it comes at the right time of the year). A large refund can pay for a new appliance or for a home improvement which they would not otherwise be able to afford. Most of my clients do not have extra capital to work with, so a large refund is a good boost for them. I know the IRS doesn't like for people to over withhold, but I work for my clients, not the IRS.