A useful year-end review distinguishes decisions still available from work that is already complete. Start with an updated forecast and a list of changes in the business, the owner's circumstances, and planned transactions. Ask the adviser to identify the actual deadlines that apply to each item.
Focus on decisions, not a generic deduction list
Review owner compensation, capital spending, expense documentation, tax payments, benefits, and pending transactions. Ask why each recommendation fits the specific business and what records are required. Avoid purchasing something solely because it appears on a year-end checklist.
Prepare the filing handoff
Assign responsibility for final financial statements, payroll reporting, asset schedules, and missing documents. Keep a record of elections and decisions so the filing team can connect the plan to the return. Schedule an early follow-up for unresolved items.
Bring this to the conversation.
- Updated forecast and payment history
- Planned purchases, transactions, and owner payments
- Benefits and payroll items needing review
- A document and implementation list with named owners
Three questions worth asking.
- Which decisions have a deadline before year-end?
- What has actually been implemented?
- What does the filing team still need?
Turn the discussion into a next step.
Ask for a written action list that identifies what should happen, who is responsible, and when the team should review the result. Keep supporting documents with the decision so the books, payroll, and return preparation can follow the same facts.
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Reference and applicability.
Related IRS guidance. The checklist and meeting agenda are editorial preparation tools, not an IRS-prescribed procedure. Tax treatment, elections, and deadlines depend on the facts and applicable law. This page does not establish an advisory relationship.