u/MrSwede_

I’m a preparer at a small firm and I’m starting to think our billing is very generous.
My boss handles all the invoicing, for the returns I prepare.

I just finished a return with the following:

• Income: 2 W-2s, 1099-INT, 1099-DIV
• Investments: Stock sales (Sch D) AND Crypto trades
• Side Hustle: Schedule C
• Misc: Gambling winnings/losses
• Deductions: Property taxes, Mortgage etc.
• State: Michigan return + Homestead Property Tax Credit (MI-1040CR)

Total time spent about 90 min
Total bill was $175

I feel like the Crypto and Schedule C alone should be worth more than that.

For those of you in public accounting or running your own shops, what would your firm minimum be for a return like this? Is $150-$200 even sustainable in 2026? I asked and was told that long time client get too upset if he raises the prices too fast. How would you handle these types of clients? (if they are long term clients)