Getting Started Frequently Asked Questions

Starting with a new tax and accounting firm shouldn't be complicated. These frequently asked questions explain what you can expect when working with Tolli Tax & Accounting—from your initial inquiry through onboarding and beyond.

1. What if I'm not sure which service I need?

That's perfectly okay.

Many clients aren't sure which service best fits their situation when they first contact us. We'll discuss your circumstances, answer your questions, and recommend the services that best meet your needs. If another solution is more appropriate, we'll explain that as well.

Our goal is to help you make an informed decision—not to sell you services you don't need.

2. How do I become a client?

Getting started is simple.

Contact our office to discuss your needs, and we'll help determine the services that best fit your situation. If we're a good fit, we'll explain the next steps, provide an engagement agreement, and let you know what information we'll need to get started.

3. Why do I need to sign an engagement agreement?

An engagement agreement outlines the scope of services to be provided, the responsibilities of both our firm and the client, applicable fees, payment terms, and other important expectations before work begins.

Having a written agreement helps ensure everyone has a clear understanding of the services being provided and promotes effective communication throughout the engagement.

If you have questions about any part of your engagement agreement, we're happy to review it with you before you sign.

4. Do you offer consultations?

Yes.

The type of consultation depends on your needs.

If you're looking to determine whether our firm is a good fit, we offer a complimentary introductory conversation. If your situation requires tax advice, accounting review, planning, or analysis, we'll recommend a paid consultation appropriate for your needs.

We'll discuss the best option when you contact us.

5. Do you accept new clients?

Yes.

We welcome new individual, business, and nonprofit clients throughout the year.

Whether you're looking for a new tax professional, ongoing accounting support, payroll services, or assistance with an IRS or state tax matter, we'd be happy to discuss how we may be able to help.

6. Can I work with your firm if I don't live nearby?

Absolutely.

Many of our clients work with us remotely. We use secure technology to exchange documents, communicate throughout the engagement, and provide services to clients in Missouri and many other states.

7. How do I securely send documents?

We provide a secure client portal for uploading tax and financial documents.

Because tax documents often contain sensitive personal information, we recommend using the secure portal rather than standard email whenever possible.

8. Can I switch accountants during the year?

Yes.

You don't have to wait until the end of the year to change accountants or tax professionals.

Whether you're looking for a new tax preparer, bookkeeping support, payroll services, or ongoing advisory assistance, we can discuss your current situation and help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Depending on the services requested, we may also request prior tax returns, accounting records, or authorization to communicate with your previous accountant.

9. How long does the onboarding process take?

The timeline depends on the services requested and the completeness of the information provided.

Once we receive your signed engagement agreement and the necessary documentation, we'll review your information and communicate the anticipated timeline for your project or ongoing services.

10. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept several forms of payment for our services.

Accepted payment methods and payment terms vary by service. We'll explain all applicable fees, payment expectations, and available payment options before work begins.

11. What should I expect after contacting your office?

After you contact us, we'll learn more about your situation, answer any initial questions, and determine whether our services are a good fit for your needs. In some cases, we may recommend additional services—or let you know if another solution would better meet your needs.

If we move forward together, we'll explain the next steps, provide any necessary engagement documents, and let you know exactly what information we'll need to begin.

Our goal is to make the process straightforward, transparent, and as stress-free as possible.