Illustrative scenario learning tools | Published 9 October 2026
From an Illustrative Scenario to a Tax Consultation: Preparation Checklist
Bring an illustrative scenario to a consultation as a question, together with your own records. The goal is to evaluate the concept under your circumstances, including reasons it may not fit.
Explain what interests you
State the decision you want to make and the timeframe. Tell the advisor whether you have already acted, signed a contract or filed a return using the approach. A proposed transaction and a completed transaction can require different reviews.
Prepare your own fact pattern
Collect relevant returns, books, ownership records and transaction documents. For a property question, include the depreciation and use history. For an owner-payroll question, include duties and payroll. Transfer sensitive records through the agreed secure process.
Ask for a complete comparison
Request the baseline, assumptions, implementation cost and limitations. Ask what evidence is missing and how a change in facts would change the conclusion. Include the option of waiting or declining the strategy in the discussion.
Record the agreed next step
Identify the scope, decision deadline, responsible person and required document for each action. Confirm whether the consultation itself includes implementation. Keep the written engagement terms alongside the plan.
Printable preparation worksheet
Use a private working copy to record the document location, outstanding question and person responsible for completing each item. These blank fields do not submit or store information online. Keep sensitive data in your secure records.
| Record or question | Document location or missing item | Owner and follow-up date |
|---|---|---|
| Decision and timeframe | ________________ | ________________ |
| Actions already taken | ________________ | ________________ |
| Relevant source records | ________________ | ________________ |
| Baseline and alternatives | ________________ | ________________ |
| Scope and next-step owner | ________________ | ________________ |
Before you request advice
Mark unresolved items clearly and explain any deadline that may affect the review. Ask for an individualized conclusion and a written work scope before relying on a recommendation. A completed preparation worksheet is evidence organization, not approval of a tax position.
Continue with the relevant AE service or guide
Review the related AE decision and next steps. Confirm the specific entities, tax years, deliverables and fees covered by your engagement.
Related preparation resources
- Illustrative Tax Scenario Assumption Review Worksheet
- Illustrative Planning Outcome Stage Map: Proposed, Implemented and Verified
Published by AE Tax Advisors. General education and preparation support, not individual tax, legal or accounting advice. Illustrative material does not describe a real client outcome or guarantee a result.