I Have A Quick Question!

Last week, I had an interesting encounter with a potential client. We met at a networking event and really hit it off—she was excited to work with me, and I was looking forward to helping her. However, earlier today she texted me with “a quick question” about her situation.

Since she hadn’t yet formally engaged my services, I explained that there are no “quick answers” when it comes to tax and accounting. I told her I’d be happy to help her through a consulting session, but that I don’t work for free. After I said what I needed to say, she decided to go “in a different direction.”

Am I upset? Surprisingly, no. I’d rather not work with a client who doesn’t respect the years I’ve spent mastering my craft, or the fact that my time and expertise have real value.

To my fellow CPAs and EAs: Let this be a reminder to charge for your time and expertise. Our profession has historically struggled with this—too often we give away advice for free because we’re eager to help. But when you’re constantly fielding “quick questions” at no charge, it not only eats away at your time but also devalues the work we do.

The great news is that things are changing. The AICPA is now advocating for value pricing in these strategy sessions, saying it’s actually more ethical than hourly billing. And there are some excellent organizations out there teaching accountants how to price properly and get paid what we’re worth. I personally recommend the American Institute of Certified Tax Planners and TaxPlanIQ for those looking to level up.

To the general public: Please understand that expecting your accountant to give away free answers is not only disrespectful—it’s unethical. A good accountant will give you thorough, informed answers that help you make the best decisions possible. But that’s what you pay for—because that knowledge and experience didn’t come for free to us, either.

Public accounting is evolving. I’m urging my fellow professionals to stand firm in getting paid what we’re worth, and urging everyone else to recognize and respect the value we bring.