estimated return or file 0s

[Strongsilence-CPA]

I don't have books and it isn't likely that I will get complete or accurate books today.  Would you file an estimated partnership return or a return with 0s?

[IRonMaN · Accepted solution]

Neither method would result in a correct return and your name is on it, so I would not file anything.  Not a preparer's problem when clients don't get their stuff to us timely.

[abctax55]

I tend to agree with Jeff.... but, why aren't the books ready?   

If there's a really good reason, the penalties for late filing might be abated.

If the client is just 'lazy'; too bad, so sad & perhaps a lesson will be learned?

[Strongsilence-CPA]

The Bookkeeper is notoriously flaky and has family priorities which she places before her client work.  This would not be a reasonable cause, in my opinion.  (The client doesn't yet have the will to fire the bookkeeper, contrary to my advice.)

The lesson to be learned is a point I regard, and I do hope my client learns it too.

[Strongsilence-CPA]

Thank you kindly.

We do have a general notion that revenue is higher than 2020. But any numbers will be inaccurate by a factor which is unknown.  

I probably, to my fault, let client problems become my own. 

I have been trying to get the client to fire the bookkeeper.

I let the client know that they need to choose a different bookkeeper or choose me.