Advisory Services for CPAs: Transform Your Accounting Firm
Transitioning your accounting firm to include ongoing tax and financial advisory services is a multi year journey, and it’s worth it. While many firms already offer planning advice for free, true advisory services signal to clients that proactive guidance is invaluable beyond just filing tax returns or occasional tips.
1. Build Your Vision and Set Advisory Goals
Begin by creating a clear vision. What does your firm’s future look like with year-round tax advisory services? Talk with fellow firm owners, listen to industry podcasts, and read blog posts about successful advisory transitions. These conversations will help you set measurable goals such as converting 30% of clients to advisory bundles within two years.
2. Create Specialty Tax Planning Strategies
Once your vision is set, design niche tax planning workflows tailored to your ideal clients. Implement optimized client onboarding, internal processes, and bespoke tax and financial recommendations. Choose a group of trusted clients to pilot the new offering. Refine based on feedback and document the process. Share your results with clients to highlight the value of ongoing planning.
3. Leverage Technology to Scale Advisory Services
Using the right tools makes it easier to deliver consistent, high value advice. Automate administrative work and use software for bookkeeping, tax reporting, client communication, and e-signature. Test different platforms to find the best fit. Good technology frees you to focus on advising rather than admin tasks.
4. Roll Out New Tools Thoughtfully
Do not rush in. Take small steps when adding systems that complement your workflow and meet client needs. A gradual rollout helps your team and clients adapt, ensuring a smooth transition without overwhelming anyone.
5. Package Advisory Services with Clarity
Offer three distinct advisory service bundles, for example:
Foundation Package: Basic tax check-ins and planning
Growth Package: Quarterly advisory calls with deeper analysis
Premium Package: Full financial planning and proactive strategy
Clear service tiers help clients understand what each package includes and make it easier for them to choose the right level of support.
6. Charge Fairly for Ongoing Advisory
Advisory is not a one-time favor. Build clarity into your pricing so clients recognize the value of ongoing support. When clients see your strategic guidance as an investment, they are more likely to commit long term.
Final Thoughts
Adding advisory services is a long-term move that deepens client relationships and supports your firm's growth. Keep clients informed about the benefits, use tools like Intuit®’s free The Path to Advisory guide, and stay intentional in your rollout.
Editor’s note: Originally published in the CPA Practice Advisor.
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