Can I be billed for the tax advisor costs on an hourly basis?
March 9, 2022 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Eva Peters
Dear tax advisor,
My name is Albrecht Gehrmann and I am currently considering hiring a tax advisor for my tax matters. However, I have concerns about the costs that may arise. Therefore, I would like to know if it is possible to bill the tax advisor's fees on an hourly basis.
I have not had any experience with hiring a tax advisor before and I am unsure about how billing is usually done. I am aware that most tax advisors bill their services according to the Tax Advisor Compensation Act (StBVV). However, I have heard that there is also the option to bill the costs on an hourly basis.
As a self-employed individual with fluctuating income, it is particularly important for me to remain flexible and only pay for the actual time spent on consultation. I want to avoid paying for services that I may not actually need.
Therefore, my specific question to you as a tax advisor is: Is it possible to bill tax advisor fees on an hourly basis? If so, what requirements need to be met and approximately what would be the hourly rate for your services?
I thank you in advance for your support and look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
Albrecht Gehrmann
Dear Mr. Gehrmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the billing options for tax consultant fees. I understand your concerns regarding costs, especially when working as a self-employed individual with fluctuating income. It is indeed possible to bill a tax consultant's fees on an hourly basis, but there are some things to consider.
In general, the billing of a tax consultant's services is governed by the Tax Consultant Compensation Act (StBVV). This law establishes the framework and fee rates for the activities of a tax consultant. Typically, costs are calculated based on time spent or a fixed hourly rate.
If you wish to opt for hourly billing, it is important to clarify this with your tax consultant beforehand. Some tax consultants offer this option, but others may only offer flat fees or a combination of hourly rate and flat fee.
The requirements for hourly billing may vary depending on the tax consultant. Generally, accurate time tracking during consultation sessions will be necessary to maintain transparency in costs. It is also important to clarify in advance what the tax consultant's hourly rate is to avoid any surprises.
The hourly rate of a tax consultant can vary depending on experience, specialization, and location. In large cities, hourly rates are typically higher than in rural areas. An average hourly rate of a tax consultant can range between 100 and 200 euros, but it may be higher depending on the individual case.
I recommend that you thoroughly research the billing options and costs of your potential tax consultant in advance to ensure that you find a fee model that suits you. I am also available to answer any further questions you may have.
I hope this information has been helpful to you.
Best regards,
Eva Peters
Tax Consultant
