Frequently Asked Questions
If you e-filed your return, you can typically check your refund status within about 48 hours using the IRS 'Where's My Refund?' tool. This resource allows you to track your refund for the current year as well as the previous two years.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the IRS Where's My Refund? page.
We accept payments through ACH, Check, PayPal, Venmo, Credit Card, and cash. Please note that we cannot deduct your payment to us from your tax refund.
To help you maximize your deductions, we've created a comprehensive checklist that you can download for free by clicking the button.
Remember, it's essential to keep accurate records and receipts for all business expenses claimed as deductions. This documentation will support your tax return in the event of an audit. Additionally, consulting with a tax professional or accountant can ensure you're taking full advantage of available deductions while staying compliant with tax laws.
The most secure way to send your documents is by uploading your scanned files or photos through our Secure File Pro portal by visiting our Client Center. You can also mail or drop off your forms directly at our office.
Please note that while it's fine to email us with questions, we strongly recommend not emailing documents containing private information. For your security, do not text forms to us.
We often recommend filing an extension, as it can reduce the likelihood of being audited by the IRS due to the IRS having less time to do so.
Additionally, there are instances where amending a prior year's return may be advantageous, and filing an extension gives you more time to do so. Filing an extension can provide you with extra flexibility and peace of mind.
Absolutely! We e-file all returns because it offers enhanced security for your private information, aligning with IRS recommendations. Additionally, e-filing significantly reduces your refund wait time, often cutting it in half compared to paper filing.
Receiving a notice from the IRS can be unsettling, but it’s important to address it promptly and correctly.
Here’s how to handle it:
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Stay Calm: Don’t panic. Many IRS notices are routine and can be resolved quickly.
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Understand the Notice: Carefully read the notice to understand why the IRS contacted you, what action is required, and any deadlines for response.
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Gather Documentation: Collect any relevant documents or records related to the notice. Being organized will help you respond accurately and efficiently.
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Respond Promptly: If the notice requires a response, reply by the specified deadline. Missing deadlines could result in penalties or further action from the IRS.
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Seek Professional Assistance: If you're unsure how to respond or if the issue is complex, consider reaching out to a qualified tax professional for guidance and representation.
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Keep Copies: Maintain copies of all correspondence with the IRS, including the notice itself and any responses you send. This documentation is crucial for future reference.
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Follow Up if Necessary: If you haven’t received a resolution or have questions about your case, don’t hesitate to contact the IRS for clarification.
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Take Preventive Measures: After resolving the issue, take steps to avoid similar problems in the future, such as updating your tax withholding, improving recordkeeping practices, or seeking ongoing professional tax advice.
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Working with a professional tax preparer or accountant offers a range of valuable benefits that can simplify your financial life and ensure accuracy in your tax filings:
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Expertise and Knowledge: Tax laws and regulations are complex and frequently change. A professional tax preparer or accountant has the expertise to navigate these complexities, ensuring that your taxes are prepared accurately and in full compliance with current regulations.
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Maximized Deductions and Credits: Professionals can identify deductions and credits that you might overlook, potentially saving you money. They know exactly which deductions and credits you qualify for, helping you maximize your tax savings.
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Time Savings: Preparing taxes can be time-consuming, particularly if your financial situation is complex. Hiring a professional frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life or business.
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Minimized Errors: Tax professionals are trained to minimize errors on tax returns, reducing the risk of audits, penalties, and fines from the IRS.
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Audit Support: In the event of an IRS audit, a professional tax preparer or accountant provides invaluable support and representation, helping you navigate the process and resolve any issues.
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Financial Planning: Beyond tax preparation, tax professionals offer strategic financial planning advice. They can assist you in making decisions that minimize your tax liability and help you achieve your long-term financial goals.
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Peace of Mind: Knowing that your taxes are being handled by a qualified professional provides peace of mind, ensuring your financial affairs are in good hands.
Overall, hiring a professional tax preparer or accountant offers financial benefits, saves time, and provides peace of mind—making it a smart investment for individuals and businesses alike.
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Keeping track of business expenses is essential for maintaining accurate financial records and maximizing your tax deductions. Here are some effective strategies to help you stay organized:
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Use Accounting Software: Invest in accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks. These platforms are designed to help you track expenses, categorize transactions, and generate financial reports efficiently.
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Keep Receipts: Always save receipts and invoices related to business expenses. Consider digitizing paper receipts using a scanner or mobile app to ensure they’re not lost.
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Maintain Detailed Records: Record each business expense as soon as it occurs. Be sure to include details such as the date, amount, vendor, purpose of the expense, and payment method. This ensures accuracy and completeness in your records.
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Separate Business and Personal Expenses: Keep your business and personal expenses separate by maintaining distinct bank accounts and credit cards for each. This simplifies tracking and prevents the mixing of personal and business transactions.
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Set Expense Categories: Establish a consistent system for categorizing expenses based on your business's needs and tax requirements. Common categories include office supplies, utilities, travel, meals, and professional services.
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Track Mileage: If you incur mileage expenses for business travel, use a mileage tracking app or logbook to record the date, starting point, destination, purpose, and number of miles driven.
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Regularly Reconcile Accounts: Reconcile your bank and credit card statements regularly to ensure all transactions are accurately recorded in your accounting system and to identify any discrepancies or missing expenses.
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Utilize Mobile Apps: Take advantage of mobile apps designed for expense tracking, such as Expensify, Receipts by Wave, or MileIQ. These apps allow you to capture receipts, track expenses on the go, and sync data with your accounting software.
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Schedule Regular Reviews: Set aside time each month to review and reconcile your business expenses. This will help you identify errors, oversights, or opportunities for cost savings.
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Consult with a Professional: Consider working with a bookkeeper or accountant to establish effective expense-tracking processes tailored to your business's needs. They can provide guidance on best practices, compliance requirements, and tax-saving strategies.
By implementing these strategies and staying diligent in tracking your business expenses, you’ll maintain accurate financial records, maximize your deductions, and manage your business’s finances more effectively.
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