Abstract: Method and apparatus for an automated, client-specific notification service for reporting return preparers. A notification mechanism may be implemented as a part or component of a return preparation program or as a separate application. The notification mechanism may generate customized notifications for clients based at least in part on the clients' previous return information, for example information from previously filed tax returns. The notification mechanism may customize both the content of the notifications and the timing of the notifications based on each client's particular return information. The notifications generated by the notification mechanism may include or indicate any information related to the return preparation and filing process. The information in a particular notification may be tailored to the specific client's reporting situation. The notifications may be provided to the client(s) via one or more other communications channels or mechanisms.

Abstract: System and method for accessing and displaying previous financial return information in financial return preparation programs. For example, historical tax return information for a taxable entity may be used in the preparation of a current tax return, and some of this information or data may be transferred into a current tax return electronic document, or used in the calculation of a value for a field in a current tax return document. Embodiments may provide a mechanism that enables the preparer to “jump” from a current financial return electronic document, or field on a current electronic document, that is being prepared using a current program to an electronic document prepared using a previous program, and that thus allows the preparer to directly view the source of transferred information or data. Embodiments may thus allow the preparer to identify the specific sources of transferred data or information.

Abstract: System and method for providing customer support via Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for particular aspects of tax programs and other computer-implemented processes. Different areas of tax preparation may be identified as different modules in the tax program. After selecting a module, a user of the tax program may select a particular document or particular field on a document that the user may need assistance with. A user interface may provide one or more mechanisms whereby the user may access VoIP support targeted at the particular aspect (e.g., module, document, or field). By enabling users to select particular aspects of the tax program and to invoke VoIP support for aspects at which support is needed, embodiments may enable users to sort themselves into queues targeted at the particular aspects for which support is needed before contacting the vendor's support system.

Abstract: In order to generate a financial-aid application, a system provides an electronic template that is compatible with a format of the financial-aid application, and the system retrieves stored financial information for a first individual. This financial information includes one or more income tax returns that are stored in a format that is compatible with financial planning software. Furthermore, the system merges the financial information with the electronic template to complete at least a portion of the financial-aid application.