Heads Up! If are on the Legacy CRM, this video may be what you're looking for instead.
Let's take a quick look at how to add a new client on the Client & Contact structure.
How Do I Add a Client in Canopy?
You can quickly create a new client record using the Global Add (+) button.
Creating a complete client record ensures billing, workflow, contacts, and document management are properly connected from the start.
You can add any custom fields which are great for adding specific details to your client record.
Roles allow you to assign your team members to client records.
Tags help you to quickly label and organize your clients.
Table of Contents
Open the Add Client Window
To add a client:
Click the Global Add (+) button in the navigation bar.
Select Client.
Use the left-side navigation panel in the pop-up window to move between sections.
Select the client type:
Individual
Business
Add Client Information
Enter the client’s core details.
Enter the Client Name.
Best Practice: Use a consistent naming convention, such as:
Last Name, First Name
Last Name, First & Spouse
Client names must be unique. If you have two clients with the same name, differentiate them using:
A middle initial (e.g., Smith, Tom E.)
Spouse name (e.g., Smith, Tom & Suzy)
(Optional) Check Add a different client-facing name if you want invoices or portal items to display a different name.
Complete additional fields as needed:
Client Owner
External ID
Filing Status
Source
Client Since Date
Status
Add Contacts
Each client must have at least one contact.
The first contact is typically the Primary Contact—the main person you communicate with.
To add a contact:
Select an existing contact from the dropdown, or
Click to create a New Contact.
When creating a new contact:
Enter name
Add email address
Add additional contact details
Select a contact type
At least one contact must be marked as Primary.
You can add multiple contacts as needed.
Add Custom Fields, Roles, and Tags
These sections are fully customizable.
Custom Fields
Add firm-specific data points to the client record.
Roles
Assign internal team members to the client.
Tags
Label and categorize clients for filtering and organization.
You can manage Custom Fields, Roles, and Tags in Settings.
Save the Client
When finished:
Click Save Client, or
Click Save and Manage to continue working within the new client record.
Summary
Adding a client in Canopy allows you to:
Create a structured record for individuals or businesses
Assign a primary contact and additional contacts
Customize the record using fields, roles, and tags
Establish clean naming conventions for long-term organization
A well-structured client record improves workflow, billing accuracy, and communication.
Need Help?
Contact Support or ask Penny, our AI Support Bot, for assistance.