What computer and office equipment will you need?

Well since you won't be preparing tax returns manually, you will need a computer. Don't skimp here. Get one with lots of memory and a huge hard drive. Find a monitor that's easy on the eyes and forget about using this computer to play games. It's a tool by golly! I have bought several Dell computers over the years with very good success.
Think about how you will connect to the Internet. If you still use a dial up connection, your computer will need a fast modem. I like to backup my tax return files to a flash drive. They are pretty inexpensive so get one with at least 512kb of storage. Make sure your computer has USB 2.0 slots and buy an a/b, USB 2.0 cable to run from the back of your computer (or wherever the USB 2.0 connection is) to your desktop for easy access to your flash drive. You can add a USB 2.0 card to your computer if you don't already have one.

What about a laser printer? Leave the color lasers at home with your gaming computer. I prefer HP laser printers. Look for 32mb of memory and one that prints at least 600dpi (dots per inch). By the way, I always use original HP cartridges. A Multifunction machine that prints, copies, scans and faxes makes a lot of sense in today's fax crazy world.

What about a phone system? And how many phone lines will you have? Do you want prospective clients to hear a busy signal during tax season? If not get at least two lines. You'll also need bookcases, trash cans, calculators, filing cabinets, pencil holders and waiting room furniture.

 


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