Preparation and filing
I review the information you provide, prepare the applicable federal and state income tax returns included in our engagement, and electronically file eligible returns after your review and approval.
Tax Preparation
Tax preparation with a CPA who understands the bigger picture.
I prepare individual and business tax returns with a focus on accuracy, clear communication, and understanding the financial activity behind the numbers.
You'll work directly with me throughout the process. I'll review your information, ask questions when something needs clarification, and help you understand what's going into your return-not simply prepare the forms.
Evan O'Brien, CPA, MBA · Former Bank CFO & Chief Investment Officer · 13 Years in Finance
I typically respond within one business day.
Tax preparation shouldn't leave you wondering what's happening with your return.
You have a business to run.
You need your business and individual tax returns prepared accurately and on time without tax season becoming another job for you to manage.
Your tax situation has become more complicated.
Maybe your income has grown, you started or acquired a business, purchased investment property, changed entity structures, or simply reached the point where preparing your own return no longer makes sense.
You want to know who is actually preparing your return.
When you hire my firm, you work directly with me. You'll know who is reviewing your information, preparing your return, and answering your questions.
You want someone looking beyond the forms.
Tax preparation is primarily about reporting what has already happened, but the preparation process can also uncover opportunities for better planning going forward.
If I see something that deserves a closer look, I'll bring it to your attention.
What’s included in your tax preparation.
Direct access to your CPA
Questions don't have to pass through multiple layers of staff. You'll work directly with me during the preparation process.
Review of your financial information
Preparing a return requires more than entering numbers into tax software. I review the information you provide and follow up when something is unclear, inconsistent, or needs additional support.
A completed return you can understand
Before filing, you'll have an opportunity to review your return and ask questions. You'll also receive a completed copy for your records.
Planning opportunities identified along the way
If I identify a potential planning opportunity while preparing your return, I’ll bring it to your attention so we can discuss whether a separate tax-planning engagement makes sense.
A straightforward tax preparation process.
We discuss your situation.
We'll talk about the returns you need prepared, your business or personal tax situation, and any significant changes during the year.
We agree on the scope.
I'll explain the services being provided and the associated fees in writing. Once you decide to move forward, I'll request the information needed to prepare your return.
You provide your tax documents.
You'll receive instructions for securely providing tax documents and other relevant financial information.
I prepare and review your return.
I'll review the information, prepare the return, and contact you if I have questions or need clarification.
We finalize and file.
You'll have an opportunity to review the completed return and ask questions. After receiving the required authorization, I'll electronically file eligible returns and provide copies for your records.
Frequently asked questions
What documents will I need?
It depends on your tax situation.
Common documents include prior-year tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, brokerage statements, business financial statements, K-1s, real estate information, and records related to significant transactions during the year.
Once we agree on the engagement, I'll provide a request based on the returns I'm preparing for you.
Do you prepare both business and individual tax returns?
Yes. I prepare individual and business income tax returns.
For business owners, preparing both can also provide a more complete view of how activity within the business affects the owner's individual tax situation.
What if I already have a CPA?
That's fine. We can discuss what you're looking for and why you're considering a change.
If we decide to work together, I'll explain the next steps and what information I need to make the transition.
Can you help if I need an extension?
Yes.
An extension provides additional time to file your return, but it generally does not provide additional time to pay tax that is due. If an extension is necessary, I'll help determine the information needed to make a reasonable estimate of any payment that should accompany it.
Can we work together remotely?
Yes. Consultations can be handled by phone or video, and tax documents can be provided electronically through the firm's secure process.
Does tax preparation include tax planning?
Tax preparation and tax planning are separate services.
Tax preparation primarily looks backward and reports what has already occurred. Tax planning looks forward and evaluates strategies and decisions that may affect future taxes.
If I identify a potential planning opportunity while preparing your return, I'll bring it to your attention and we can decide whether a separate tax-planning engagement makes sense.
What if my books aren't ready for tax preparation?
Let me know.
Accurate business records are important to preparing an accurate return. If your bookkeeping needs to be cleaned up or brought current before tax preparation begins, we can determine what needs to be done and whether my bookkeeping services are appropriate.
