This is kind of both a general, financial and tax musing. It is about how I feel is the best way to bill for my services. I have always advocated a billing structure based on setting up services as ‘projects’ then billing a flat fee for each of those projects. I have never liked billing on an hourly basis – clients sometimes feel you are spending more time to ‘pad’ the bill. I would rather calculate the fee for the project using my experience and including all services (including telephone time) in the fee. The fee is what it is and I know what I am receiving for my work, plus the client can budget based on what is to be paid. Accountants sometimes get a ‘taxi driver’ mentality (start the meter when you get in the cab) which I feel does nothing to promote the profession or satisfy their clientele. Here is an article about this:
http://www.accountingtoday.com/news/Accountants-Move-Toward-Value-Pricing-Model-60705-1.html
This results in your clients knowing what to expect and many will recommend you to their friends and associates.