Our philosophy is based on the belief that we are on our client’s side, not the I.R.S.’s. Besides preparing your tax return with emphasis on customer service, efficiency and expertise, the following services are included in your fee:
Electronic Filing
By filing electronically you can speed up your refund and receive it in as little as ten days.
Short inquiries
We encourage clients to ask us questions during the year. (We always try to return calls within 48 hours and for short inquiries, there is no charge.) We have found that many clients over pay their taxes, something which could be avoided by a short phone call or visit. When you hear something from a so-called ‘expert”, please call us and get the facts right. We would rather spend the time in off-season (when we have more time) than during the tax appointment when it is already too late. (We have found that the moaning takes longer than doing it right the first time!) If the question requires more time to discuss, calculate or research, we charge a consulting fee.
Computerized returns
We use one of the largest and most respected software companies in the U.S. This insures that your tax return is done as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Handling of Letters
Handling of Letters from the I.R.S. or Franchise Tax Board (as long as they are presented to us in a timely manner).
Audit services
Personal audits are handled at no charge. (We reserve the right to charge for business audits, depending on the complexity.)
Aspirin
for those rough tax times (limit two per client).
Where’s my refund?
If you electronic file and direct deposit the tax return should process after you have signed and paid for your return within sixteen days. You will not receive any other notification of the direct deposit so, check with your bank. If it has passed this time period and the bank has not received the deposit you should check directly with the IRS website or call the IRS at 1-800- 829-4477. You will need the Taxpayer’s Social Security Number, filing status and the exact amount of your refund in whole dollars.
Can I pay my amount due with a credit card?
To pay your liability by credit card for a fee (American Express, MasterCard, DiscoverCard), call the number(s) listed below and follow the recorded instructions. Confirmation numbers will be given to you on all credit card transactions and should be retained with your records.
Federal 1-888-972-9829, 1-888-872-9829 or 1-888-729-1040
California 1-800-272-9829
How long should I wait for a return call from my preparer?
All of our preparers will try to respond to your call or e-mail within 48 hours of being in the office. If it has been longer than this, please contact us again, there may be a problem with our contact information for you.
Do I have to talk with the IRS?
No, as Enrolled Agents we can speak to the IRS in your behalf, if you provide us with a completed Power of Attorney Form (2848). Just call us if you need help in dealing with the IRS and we’ll provide you with a 2848 to sign.
I talked to a friend and they said I could……
There are many rumors out there regarding taxes. The best way to see if what you’ve heard is really ACCURATE is to contact your preparer. There are a lot of scams and half-truths-don’t get yourself into trouble-just ask us. You may e-mail your preparer directly from our home page by clicking on their email address next to their picture.
I just got a notice-what should I do?
We will need to get a copy of the notice. You may mail it, e-mail it or drop it by. But, do not put off getting it to us. IRS and state tax notices are time sensitive and need to dealt with in a timely manner. Even if you think the notice is correct it is best to let us look it over before you respond.
What should I bring in if I’ve sold real estate or stocks this year?
For a real estate sale the settlement statement and 1099-S is preferable, while a stock sale usually causes a 1099-B to be sent by the brokerage that handled the transaction. So, if you have received a 1099-B please bring it with you to the appointment. For both of these transactions we need to find out how much you have spent on the asset and when the asset was originally purchased. This can be provided through handwritten records in most cases but, oftentimes the brokerage will have what they call a cost basis statement that they will provide you when they send the 1099-B. If you didn’t receive one it is a good idea to call them and get a copy of your cost basis statement before your first appointment. Also, if you had made improvements to the property or reinvested taxable dividends, we need to know how much was paid in these instances.
Do I need to file taxes if I only receive Social Security income?
Usually if you have no other incomes, property sales, investment transactions or gambling winnings during the year social security income does not require you to file. However, if you didn’t receive your stimulus check this year you may need to file to get it. If you have any questions about this feel free to contact us.
When you come in for your appointment, please bring a copy of last year’s tax return as well as all W2’s, 1099’s, 1098’s and any other income-related documents.
Thank you for your interest in Accurate Tax Service. We look forward to meeting you. If you have any questions regarding the above, please don‘t hesitate to contact us.