Chat & Documents
The Chat & Documents module enables seamless communication between clients and admins while providing a centralized place to upload, manage, and share documents. It acts as a collaboration hub for exchanging messages, requesting information, and managing supporting documents for accounting and financial processes.
Chat features
- System messages — a welcome message is sent automatically once onboarding is completed; system messages also include tax project updates and "Ask client" requests (e.g., category clarification).
- Real-time messaging — messages from client are visible to admin and vice versa, syncing instantly on both sides.
- Message composition — supports bold, italic, bullet points, and hyperlinks, similar to Slack-style messaging.
- Keyboard shortcuts — Enter sends the message; Shift + Enter adds a new line.
- Attachments & screenshots — attach and send screenshots and files directly in chat.
- Link handling — links open in a new tab.
- Copy & paste — standard Ctrl+C / Ctrl+V supported.
- Timestamps — each message displays its time.
- Notifications — a red indicator appears when a new message is received or a new document is uploaded.
- Categorize / Ask Client — admins can request additional details (e.g., a category for a transaction), which triggers an automatic message to the client.
Document management features
- Upload documents — via Upload Documents, with required fields: File Name, Folder Type (e.g., Books, Tax, Contracts), File Tag, and Signature Required (Yes/No).
- Supported file types — PDF, DOC/DOCX, XLS/XLSX/CSV, PPT/PPTX, images (JPG, PNG, HEIC, WEBP), ZIP, and more.
- Folders & tags — categorize into Books, Contracts, Licenses, Tax, or Other.
- Signature required — mark a document as requiring signature; a visual indicator appears next to it.
- Signed documents — once signed, the status updates automatically and a signed indicator is displayed.
- View — accessible by the owner and users with permission.
- Download — anytime.
- Delete — only the owner can delete documents.
- Filter — by folder and file tag; only matching documents are displayed.
How it works (end-to-end)
Chat flow: the system sends a welcome message after onboarding → admin/client send messages → messages sync instantly → notifications highlight new activity → users respond or attach files.
Document flow: upload with folder/tag → mark signature requirement if needed → document appears in the list → users view, download, or sign → owner can delete.
FAQs
When do I receive a welcome message? Once onboarding or accounting setup is completed.
Can both client and admin send messages? Yes — messages from either side are visible to the other in real time.
What happens when I press Enter? The message sends; use Shift + Enter for a new line.
Do links open within the app? No, links open in a new browser tab.
What is the "Ask Client" feature? It lets admins request additional information, triggering an automatic message to the client.
Can I require signatures on documents? Yes — mark documents as "Signature Required"; a signed indicator appears after signing.
Who can view/delete documents? The owner and users with access can view; only the owner can delete.
Why don't I see a document or message? Possible reasons: no access permission, filters applied, or data not yet synced.