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Offering to 'review' prior returns [not the current year] is a good way for someone who has spare time to build up their client bases. A waste of time for someone who has a full client base. Sometimes worth making an exception for someone referred by a good client.

Dogs have masters. Cats have staff.

It's more than a strong chance. It's pretty much a "given". Mine pestered me all this morning until she got what she wanted. Now she is taking a nap on my bed. What's fair about that?

I agree withal the above. For a "BRAND NEW" client I will review (for free) several years previously filed - completed returns but if they need amended or "filed" it is standard cost. I have had several non-clients wanting me to check their work; and two clients who wanted me to "check" their NEW preparer (new guy gave a GREAT price but...). All were told I would happily check the work --- at the same price I would normally "do" their tax return preparation as the same work was involved in checking as was involved in "doing" original return. Several walked away, one of my "old" clients said OK and did leave me for the "new guy", one client said OK and understood why the charge from the "new guy" was so low and came back to me. If they want a "calculation check" with just numbers entered - perhaps a slightly less cost as it is just imputing numbers *** BUT *** if they want an opinion or anything other than a number check, why would I do that for less than normal fee? Bottom line ---- time and effort and our cost to do does NOT change if we are "checking" or "doing" the tax return - so fees stay the same. Your choice, what is your time, expertise and more importantly your reputation worth?

I will not participate in any venture with Turbo-Tax in any manner, shape or form. You have a taste of what you will be getting. RUN FORREST RUN!!!

I tell people I don't grade papers. If they want me to check their return, they must pay me for the time to do a preparation from the ground up. Even at that, the processing time involved in setting up a new client means the first year's return is often much less profitable than subsequent years. You can't build a strong business based on providing the cheapest service for one-time bargain shoppers. Catering to that crowd just makes you one of many people out there trying to see how cheaply they can work. It's a no-win situation for you.