This vaires depending on the size of the practice. Typically smaller firms, the transition time can be anywhere from 30-60 days. This may or may not include a tax season depending on when the deal closes. Larger firms are typically 90+ days and sometimes for a full year depending on the new buyers needs. It is not uncommon for a seller to work at least an initial tax season on any size practice. Transitional assistance helps the clients adjust to the new owner and the seller feel confident that their former clients are going to be taken care of correctly.