You can use Misc Stmt within forms. That will not efile over whereas Preparer notes will (not sure why as that should be reversed).

You could right click a line and add/edit notes and choose for it not to be included with return.

As I open the manila folder with the copies of the prior returns in it, i write the must see notes on the inside left cover of the folder.

Our files are digital, but each client has a document called Notes for Next Year.

At the very bottom of Client Status Sheet is a section for Permanent Notes that transfers into next year.

Not Current Year Notes.  Permanent Notes that can be deleted and changed next year. 

I use Client Status.  Like Accountant-Man pointed out - there are two areas for notes.  One that does not carry over to next year and one that carries forward indefinitely.   

 You can set the options to take you to Client Status page before you save/exit the file.

Tools>Options>General - Client Status check box is near the bottom

I believe having the name “Jeff” automatically enrolls you in the Luddite Society.  I still like paper files but I have advanced from Manila folders to colored folders.  It’s easier to find the correct year down in the dungeon if you rotate colors when the files get full.

Does working through at least on tax season in the 70's qualify as a Luddite?

And I am too cheap for each year to get their own folder. I just cram 3 -5 years in one until it gets too full then the oldest get moved to the archive cabinet.

We rotate files every 2 to 3 years and then pick the new color.  We haven’t used puce yet - maybe next year.

You can use the little red exclamation point to make notes that you should see the next year when you go back to look at the previous year.  If that doesn't work for you, attach a note to the client's last name and that will carry from year to year until you no longer need it.  Be certain to put the date on the note the first time you do that.  Information from 2016 isn't always helpful on 2021 returns.  These are rather elementary suggestions but sometimes there is no other choice.

Another Former All Star

Many years ago, I per-diemed for a firm whose file folders were different colors. I asked why, and he asked if I remembered the color of the various IRS paper forms for returns: White, blue, red(or pink) and yellow.

So I use color folders while preparing returns, 1040 white(manila), corps blue, trusts/estates red, and partnerships yellow. It makes them easy to distinguish.