Book returns early and chase documents without the stress
Puffly is a free CRM that keeps appointments, missing paperwork and last year's clients in one list, so you are ready before the January rush hits.
Where tax preparation office leads come from
Returning clients and their families
Most of your business is last year's clients and the relatives and coworkers they bring in each season.
Google Maps, signs and walk-ins
People search for tax help near them or spot your storefront while running errands. They often want an appointment within days.
Employers, churches and community groups
Local organizations and small employers recommend a preparer they trust. A flyer or a short talk can bring a stream of new clients.
Clients with IRS letters or amended returns
People with a notice or a past mistake search for help at any time of year. They are worried, and a quick reply builds trust.
What slow follow up costs a tax preparation office
In busy weeks, people book with the first office that gets back to them. A client who booked but never sent their paperwork can stall an appointment slot you could have filled. Last year's clients who hear nothing in January may go elsewhere.
A pipeline that fits a tax preparation office
Puffly’s pipeline is yours to name. Here is one way a tax preparation office could lay it out.
- InquirySomeone called or messaged asking about filing, pricing or an appointment.
- Appointment bookedThey have a drop-off or meeting time and need to know what to bring.
- Documents requestedYou are waiting on W-2s, 1099s and other paperwork before starting the return.
- Return in progressYou have what you need and are preparing it, with questions to resolve.
- Filed, next seasonThe return is filed and they go on your list for a check-in next winter.
Follow up moments worth a reminder
A client booked an appointment for Saturday and has not sent any documents
"Hi, quick reminder for your Saturday appointment. Please bring your W-2s and any 1099s, plus last year's return if you have it."
A finished return is ready and the client has not come in to sign
"Good news, your return is ready to review and sign. Stop by this week or let me know a time that works for you."
It is early January and last year's clients have not booked yet
"Hi, tax season is around the corner. I am opening up appointments now. Want me to save you a spot before it gets busy?"
Puff, your AI teammate, can draft these messages and line up who to call next. Outreach waits for your approval unless you choose otherwise.
The shape of the year
Late January through April is packed, and the October extension deadline brings a smaller second wave. Use the summer and fall to reach out about IRS notices, amended returns and next year's planning, and to line up your returning client list.
Questions from tax preparers
Can I store Social Security numbers or returns in Puffly?
No. Do not store Social Security numbers, bank account details or copies of returns in Puffly. Use it for inquiries, appointment scheduling and follow up, and keep sensitive data in your tax software.
How do I reach last year's clients in January?
Import your client list from a Google Sheet, then work through it with Puff in the weeks before season. Puff drafts a message for each person and waits for your approval.
Can clients book their own appointments?
Yes. Puffly has online booking you can share, so clients can pick a slot instead of calling during a busy day.
Puffly for related trades
Start with the free CRM.
Leads, contacts, deals, tasks and your own branded lead form cost nothing. No card to start. Bring your leads in from a Google Sheet or add them by hand.
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