Use the preparer's checklist
Keep the client reference, jurisdiction, tax year and preparer-approved checklist version with the file. Flag an unfamiliar requirement or missing period for the preparer to clarify before requesting more documents.
Check periods and versions
Compare each received item's recorded year or period with the request. Receipt does not establish that the document is complete or acceptable. Retain replacement versions and the reviewer's decision so the team can see which file should be used.
Prepare a focused request
Ask for the specific missing document or clarification under the firm's secure communication process. Keep any unresolved tax question assigned to the preparer. A completed administrative packet is not a prepared, approved or filed return.
Work you can get help with
Illustrative scenario using sample information.
Use the preparer's checklist
- What you provide
- Preparer-approved checklist, year and case reference.
- The useful result
- A case-specific document list.
- When the task is complete
- The preparer confirms the checklist that applies.
Check periods and versions
- What you provide
- Document references, periods and reviewer decisions.
- The useful result
- A list of matched, mismatched and unreviewed documents.
- When the task is complete
- The preparer checks and records the status of each required item.
Prepare a focused request
- What you provide
- Confirmed gaps, approved questions and response status.
- The useful result
- A client follow-up and packet-status summary.
- When the task is complete
- The preparer accepts the packet or records the remaining questions.
Questions you may have
Can this determine deductions or tax due?
No. Those are professional tax decisions outside this document workflow.
Does a checked packet mean a return was filed?
No. Preparation, approval, filing and confirmation are separate stages.
Sources and further reading
- CCH Axcess Client Collaboration: End User
The manual describes a requested-document list, sending the questionnaire and collected files to the firm, and a view of missing items or items supplied later.
This documents a specific version of the CCH tool. It does not establish that the client agreed to the checklist version or that the features are current. It is not tax advice.
2026-11-04
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