Getting tired of this conversation

[BulldogTom]

Clients just left, but they are typical of my client base. Dual income, middle class, sch. A filers. Income within $300 of last year. Itemized deductions within $500. Withholding 3K less. Refund, 1900 less.

Client - I can't understand why when we made the same amount we are getting a smaller refund?

My answer - you got it in your check during the year.

Client - but we didn't change anything

My answer - the government did

Client - Why?

My answer - I don't know.

Client - and why do I have to pay the State?

My answer - Because your children were worth $309 in exemptions last year and only $98 this year. That is a $422 tax increase from last year. And there was a tax rate increase as well.

Client - then why didn't they take more withholding?

My answer - I don't know

Client - why do I have to pay a penalty to the state?

My answer - because you need to pay enough from your withholding to cover your taxes.

Client - but they do the withholding. I didn't change anything. Why do I have to pay a penalty?

My answer - I don't know.

This is the same conversation time after time this year.

It is getting old, or maybe I am just getting old.

Tom

Lodi, CA

[David1980]

Reminds me of one of this comedian's skits.

NSFW... (language)

Skip to about 7 minutes in.

[Lion EA]

And, then they start talking about the bigger refunds that neighbors or co-workers get.

[Lion EA]

PS. Tell them to ask their payroll department.

[ajuroff]

And, then they start talking about the bigger refunds that neighbors or co-workers get.

Hear that a lot. "my friend said blah, blah, blah, my sister got this much..etc." That's

when I tell them "You can have your friend/sister do your return. It's ok, it won't hurt my

feelings. Would you like your w-2's back?"

Why do they never take them back?

[wendybooth]

I was actually fortunate this year and when I told the client they could have W2's back and take them somewhere else they did. Did not hurt my feelings.

[Jack from Ohio]

I was actually fortunate this year and when I told the client they could have W2's back and take them somewhere else they did. Did not hurt my feelings.

I wish my PIA clients would respond that way! I have offered these 3 clients the same thing every year, and they STILL come back!!

[RitaB]

You all are hysterical. And, it's so funny because I know EVERY word is true.

Tom, you are a kindred spirit. Love the way you told that! And, yes, this IS getting old, but you are NOT!