Individual Tax FAQs

1. What documents do I need to bring for my tax appointment?

The documents you need depend on your situation, but most taxpayers should bring:

• Government-issued photo ID

• Social Security numbers or ITINs for everyone on the return

• Prior year's tax return (new clients)

• All W-2s

• All Forms 1099

• Forms 1098 (mortgage interest, tuition, etc.)

• Documentation for deductible expenses

• Health insurance information, if applicable

• Bank account information for direct deposit or direct debit

If you're self-employed, own rental property, or have other unique tax situations, additional documentation may be required.

Not sure what applies to you? Contact us before your appointment and we'll help you determine what to bring.

2. How much does an individual tax return cost?

Our minimum fee for an individual tax return is $350. The final fee depends on the complexity of your tax situation, including the number of forms required, business activities, rental properties, investments, multiple states, or other specialized tax issues.

Before beginning work, we'll provide an estimate whenever possible so you know what to expect.

Our goal is to provide accurate, thorough tax preparation—not simply the lowest price. Every return is prepared with careful attention to current tax law and opportunities that may apply to your situation.

3. Do I need an appointment?

Not always.

Many clients choose our convenient drop-off service. During a brief intake meeting, we'll discuss your tax situation, collect your documents, answer any initial questions, and begin preparing your return.

Documents may also be submitted securely through our client portal if you prefer not to visit the office.

If your situation requires more in-depth discussion or tax planning, we may recommend scheduling a consultation.

4. How long does it take to prepare my tax return?

Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of your return and the time of year.

During peak filing season, returns generally take longer than during the rest of the year. Complete and organized documentation helps us prepare your return as efficiently as possible.

If additional information is needed, we'll contact you promptly. We never sacrifice accuracy simply to finish faster.

5. Can I upload my tax documents instead of coming into the office?

Yes.

We offer a secure client portal that allows you to upload tax documents from anywhere. This protects your sensitive information far better than email.

Once we've reviewed your documents, we'll contact you if additional information is needed before preparing your return.

6. Do you offer tax planning, or just tax preparation?

We offer both.

Tax preparation reports what already happened during the year. Tax planning focuses on strategies that may legally reduce future tax liability before year-end.

Planning services are especially valuable for business owners, self-employed individuals, investors, retirees, and taxpayers experiencing significant life changes.

7. Can you help if I received an IRS notice?

Yes.

Receiving an IRS notice doesn't necessarily mean you've done anything wrong. Many notices simply request additional information or explain a change to your tax account.

We'll review the notice, explain what it means in plain language, determine whether a response is needed, and help you resolve the issue.

8. Do you prepare returns for new clients?

Absolutely.

Whether you're looking for a new tax preparer or haven't filed in several years, we're happy to review your situation.

For new clients, we'll typically request copies of your prior tax returns and any relevant supporting documentation to ensure an accurate filing.

9. Can you prepare prior-year tax returns?

Yes.

We prepare both current-year and prior-year federal and state tax returns. Whether you missed one year or several, we'll review your filing requirements and develop a plan to help you become compliant.

The documents needed will depend on the years involved and your individual circumstances.

10. When is payment due?

Payment is due before your tax return is electronically filed or provided for mailing.

We accept several forms of payment. If you have questions about fees or payment options, we'll discuss them with you before your return is finalized.