Paperless, reviewing returns with clients, providing client copies

[kcjenkins]

Jack, I felt the same at first, but that was back in 2012, when I first came across the problem, and bought a plugin cd drive to deal with it.  But now I just accept the reality that, at least for the CLIENTS, which is what we're talking about here, that is the reality.  Why would you want to give the client a CD if they do not have a drive to read it? 

 

[Abby Normal]

45 minutes ago, Jack from Ohio said:

Any computing device without an optical drive is a toy and not a computer.

I don't know about that but how are you going to rip mp3s off that CD you just got. Some music is only available as CDs. Most concerts I attend sell only CDs, but a few have been selling MP3 downloads, which is preferable, for several reasons.

[Roberts]

1 hour ago, kcjenkins said:

But the new computers don't have CD slots any more, so the only viable option going forward for electronic copies is flash drives.  

 

Didn't even think about this. Apple computers rarely have CDs.

We have multiple mini-computers in the office that don't have CD drives. I use one at home as a Plex server. CDs will be like those 3.5" floppies in a few years.

[kcjenkins]

2 minutes ago, Roberts said:

We have multiple mini-computers in the office that don't have CD drives. I use one at home as a Plex server. CDs will be like those 3.5" floppies in a few years.

Exactly.  And anyone who has their old tax return on any size floppy is probably out of luck if they need to print a copy for any reason.  That is one thing about a paper copy.  It may be old school, but you do not need any equipment to read it, except maybe eyeglasses, if you're old, like me !

[Roberts]

Just now, kcjenkins said:

Exactly.  And anyone who has their old tax return on any size floppy is probably out of luck if they need to print a copy for any reason.  That is one thing about a paper copy.  It may be old school, but you do not need any equipment to read it, except maybe eyeglasses, if you're old, like me !

I need readers over my contacts. ouch.

[rfassett]

Wow - I am going to have to start hanging out with a younger crowd!

 

[MAMalody]

My practice is conducted over the Internet.  All contacts, docs,returns, etc.  Any document I physically recieved is scanned in and shredded.  None are returned (This is highlighted in my Engagement Letter). Client recieves a password protected copy of the return(s).  After their review and any questions (via the Internet), they return the Form 8879 and I electronically file the return.  When IRS receives the return, I send the a copy of the Form 9325 to the client. They are provided a phone number they can reach me at if necessary...so far this year I have received three calls.