How Corient Outsourcing Helped Accounting Firms Simplify Tax Return Filing and Meet Deadlines Early

Introduction

At the end of each financial year, accounting firms face significant challenges in ensuring timely tax return filing. This case study demonstrates how Corient Outsourcing helped a firm streamline its processes, reducing stress and improving overall efficiency, allowing them to file their returns well ahead of the statutory deadline.

The Initial Problem: What Went Wrong?

As deadlines approached, the firm was struggling with:

• Inability to Meet Deadlines: Due to delayed client submissions, the firm often rushed to meet the December filing deadlines.
• Operational Overload: The internal staff was overwhelmed by the workload, resulting in bottlenecks and burnout.
• Last-Minute Stress: The lack of proactive planning led to chaotic situations that affected both productivity and staff morale.

Corient’s First Solution: The Fix

To address these challenges, Corient implemented a structured solution:

• Annual Workflow Planning: Corient worked with the firm to create a comprehensive yearly workflow, ensuring tasks were distributed evenly and preventing last-minute stress. Learn more about our accounting outsourcing services.
• Proactive Client Communication: By setting clear expectations and initiating regular follow-ups, clients began submitting their data well ahead of deadlines.
• Quarterly Bookkeeping: Corient recommended a quarterly approach to bookkeeping and document collection, which significantly reduces the year-end workload.

These proactive strategies set the foundation for smoother and more efficient year-end filings.

The New Problem: A Surprise Roadblock

Despite the progress, there were still challenges:

• Client Procrastination: Clients were accustomed to submitting documents closer to deadlines, creating delays in the process.
• Internal Training Needs: Adapting to the new workflows requires training staff and ensuring clear communication.

Corient’s Second Solution: Fixing the New Problem

Corient took the following steps to overcome the new hurdles:

• Step 1: Client Education: Corient conducted regular client education to emphasise the importance of early submissions. By setting clear deadlines, clients were encouraged to act sooner.
• Step 2: Staff Training: Tailored training sessions helped internal staff smoothly transition to the new system, ensuring consistency in workflow.
• Step 3: Continuous Support: Corient provided ongoing support, ensuring that any issues were promptly addressed and facilitating a successful integration.

The Final Outcome: Success Story

With Corient’s support, the firm achieved impressive results:

• Timely Completion: All year-end filings were completed ahead of time, well before the December deadline.
• Stress Reduction: The proactive approach reduced overtime, improving staff morale and job satisfaction.
• Improved Client Relationships: Clients appreciated the firm’s timely filings and proactive approach, resulting in stronger relationships and new referrals.

Client Testimonial

“Thanks to Corient, we were able to complete all filings ahead of time. Their proactive approach and organised workflows made a huge difference.”

Key Takeaways: Why This Matters for Businesses

• Strategic Workflow Planning ensures efficient year-end filing without the rush.
• Proactive Client Communication prevents delays and improves document collection.
• Investing in Staff Training ensures smooth adoption of new processes.

This case study underscores the importance of planning to avoid last-minute chaos. To learn how Corient can assist your firm, explore our strategic support solutions.