Working With Us
Do I need an appointment to come in?
If you’re interested in becoming a new client, yes. We’d love to learn more about your needs, and scheduling an appointment ensures we can dedicate the time you deserve.
If you’re already a client, we recommend giving us a quick call before stopping by if you need to meet with someone, particularly during tax season. That said, you’re always welcome to stop in to drop something off, ask a quick question, or just say hello.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring anything related to the reason you’re coming to see us. That may include your most recently filed tax return, current tax documents, bookkeeping records, IRS or Department of Revenue notices, or any other information you think might be helpful. If you’re unsure, bring it anyway – we’d rather have too much information than not enough.
Can I work with you remotely?
Absolutely. We find it very efficient to conduct most communications by phone, email, and even Zoom, making it easy to work together even if you are unable to come into the office.
How can I get my tax documents to you?
Our preferred, and strongly recommended, method is SafeSend, our secure document portal. It is the safest and most efficient way to send us tax documents and other confidential information.
You may also mail your documents or drop off hard copies at our office. Please do not email documents containing social security numbers, banking information, or other sensitive personal information. Standard email is not secure, and emailed attachments may not be processed as quickly as documents obtained through SafeSend.
Do you prepare returns for clients outside of Washington?
Yes. Although Washington does not have an individual income tax, many of our clients have filing requirements in other states. Whether you moved, own property elsewhere, or earned income in another state, we can help navigate those filing requirements.
Do you offer free consultations?
We do not offer free consultations. Our expertise, advice, and time are the professional services we provide, and scheduling a paid consultation allows us to give your situation the attention it deserves.
Tax Preparation
When should I send in my tax documents?
You can upload documents through SafeSend as you receive them. Just make sure you mark your tasks as completed once you have finished uploading all required documents.
If you are submitting documents by mail or in person, it’s generally more efficient, and often less expensive, to wait until you’ve received everything and submit it all together.
What if I am still waiting on a tax form?
Brokerage statements are notorious for arriving in March or for being corrected later in tax season. If you have most of your documents ready to go, submit them with a note letting us know what is still outstanding.
How long will it take to prepare my return?
We generally work on a first in, first out basis. The earlier you submit your tax documents, the sooner your return can be completed. We can provide a general estimate when you send in your documents, but you should expect at least two weeks once we have complete information. More complex returns may take longer.
How much is my return going to cost?
Great question. It is also a difficult one to answer in advance. We bill based on actual time spent preparing your return, not simply on the number of forms or schedules involved. Our minimum fee for an individual return is $775.
Providing clear, organized information is one of the best ways to help keep your fees lower. Lindsay will love you even more if you trade your stapler for paperclips when submitting hard copies of your documents.
Can you fix a return that was already filed?
Absolutely. If something was missed or needs to be corrected, we will review the original return, explain your options, and prepare an amended return if necessary.
Businesses
Should I be an LLC or an S Corporation?
Let’s chat. Every business is different, and choosing the right entity depends on your goals, income, and long-term plans. Give us a call and Lindsay will be happy to schedule a planning meeting.
Can you help me with QuickBooks?
Yes! Whether you need an annual tidy-up or monthly reconciliation, we are here to help.
Do you provide payroll services?
We can provide certain payroll services. We also work closely with several payroll providers and can help you determine which option is the best fit for your business.
Can you prepare my payroll reports?
Yes! We handle quarterly and annual payroll reporting for established clients.
Will you prepare my B&O tax returns?
For established clients, we can absolutely help with your Department of Revenue filings, including B&O returns.
Will you teach me how to use QuickBooks or file reports myself?
Yes! In the long run, learning to handle some of these tasks yourself is often less expensive and almost always gives you a better understanding of and greater control of your business.
Everything Else
What’s with the dragons?
Dragons represent the complicated parts of taxes and accounting. We enjoy helping our clients slay those dragons so they can focus on what they do best. And they’re fun.
I can’t make it to your office during your business hours. What now?
Call us. We can usually find a solution.
I received a notice from the IRS or Department of Revenue. What now?
Getting mail from the IRS that is not a refund check can be intimidating, but not every notice means something is wrong. Take a deep breath, send it to us, and we will help determine what, if anything, needs to be done.
I don’t even know what questions to ask. Can you still help?
Absolutely. Many of our clients come to us because they are unsure where to start. That’s okay. We will ask the right questions to determine what you may need from us and help you understand your options without making you feel overwhelmed.
