How It Works
A structured process, not a leap of faith.
From first inquiry to closeout, you'll know where you stand, what's next, and what's required — in writing, with realistic expectations.
The Client Process
Six steps from inquiry to closeout.
- 1
Initial Inquiry
Contact Northbound through the consultation form, email, phone, referral, or approved social channel.
- 2
Preliminary Review
Northbound reviews the issue, relevant deadlines, years involved, available records, urgency, and service fit.
- 3
Consultation
The facts, risks, record gaps, and potential next steps are clarified.
- 4
Scope & Engagement
The scope, fees, responsibilities, exclusions, deposit requirements, and document requests are confirmed in writing.
- 5
Work & Review
Reconstruction, preparation, analysis, or systems work is completed in defined phases with client review of questions and draft findings.
- 6
Closeout
Deliverables, final billing, outstanding items, and follow-up responsibilities are documented.
Good-Fit Clients
What makes a working engagement.
- Willing to provide records
- Communicate honestly
- Disclose deadlines
- Accept written scope and payment terms
- Participate in the reconstruction process
Not a Fit
Where Northbound may decline.
- Demand guaranteed results
- Refuse to provide records
- Conceal information
- Expect unlimited free work
- Seek legal representation
- Request falsification
- Engage in abusive communication
- Refuse required payment terms
Northbound may decline engagements that fall outside these boundaries. Declining is honest — it protects both sides and keeps the work focused on clients we can genuinely help.
Pricing & Payment
Fees reflect the real work involved.
Pricing reflects complexity, record condition, number of years, transaction volume, deadlines, required research, communication load, deliverables, and whether reconstruction is required before tax preparation or bookkeeping. Complex financial reconstruction does not begin without a written scope and payment arrangement; a deposit of up to 50% may be required before work begins.
See engagement and payment options →Pricing
Fees are based on scope, complexity, record condition, deadlines, and required deliverables. Exact pricing is provided in writing after an initial review.
Next Step
Ready to clarify the problem and build a path forward?
Request a consultation. We'll review your situation, identify the gaps, and outline a practical next step — with realistic expectations and no guarantees.