The client relationship for us is one of trust, but it has to run both ways. We sometimes assist clients who are tempted to do something we call ‘trickle-truthing’, where the client decides what information we need, and what is relevant, when we request tax information and records. With all respect to all of our clients, it isn’t always possible for a non-tax professional to be aware of all the risks and considerations that go with preparing a US tax return, particularly returns with international issues. Hedging or gate-keeping is a terrible idea. We know the information is private, and it is scary to deal with the IRS, but we are not in the business of handing such information over wholesale. Our role is to reduce your risk, and in that sense, the return is simply the final product after we have scoped and analyzed your information to determine what does and does not require disclosure. The quality of the that product, the tax return, is directly related to the quality of information we receive. We aren’t looking to make work for anyone. The take home here: Please remember that we are not your adversary, so please don’t shoot the messenger or hold back important information.