Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ – Accounting

Q:  How much do you charge?

A:  We are an a la carte servicer, so you only pay for what you need.  Some of the factors that affect the pricing are:  number of bank and credit card accounts we will need to reconcile, if you use an online accounting service, if you will grant us online access to statements, whether or not and the frequency you require for financial statements.

Q:  Are you a CPA firm?

A:  I am not.  I am a tax professional (EA), so my financial statements are prepared on a tax basis.

FAQ – Payroll

Q:  How much do you charge?

A:  We have a 3-tier system, so we will be involved as little or as much as you’d like.

• Tier 0 – We help you get setup or ask you to allow us the access needed to pull reports related to your accounting needs;
• Tier 1 – After the fact and S Corp only payrolls;
• Tier 2 – Full service payroll with direct deposit and employee limited access.

Q:  How quickly can I get started?

A:  The payroll services usually request a 3-4 business day turn around, but are usually actually open the next business day from submission. However to do this we are dependent on getting the necessary paperwork from you.

FAQ – Taxes

Q:  Do you prepare individual tax returns?

A:  Although I specialize in small businesses, I do also prepare Individual Income Tax Returns.

Q:  Can you prepare my out of state return? (other than AZ)

A:  Yes, my software handles all the states and cities that require filing.

Q:  Can you help me prepare my returns?

A:  I do not offer training on tax preparation.  If you want me to review what you have prepared, I’m happy to help with that.

Q:  Do you offer tax planning services?

A:  Yes, in fact, if I am your preparer your paid service also includes one tax strategy session.  If not, then  I offer consulting at $100/hr.

Q:  Can you tell me how to save money on my taxes?

A:  I can discuss different tax strategies depending on your filing status, entities involved, income sources and possible deductions to help you make informed tax choices and understand the impact of each choice.

FAQ – Consulting

Q:  Can you help me set up my LLC?

A:  If it is a single member LLC in the state of AZ, I can.  Otherwise, this is a legal service that I cannot provide.  I can offer referrals to professionals that can help.

Q:  What’s the difference between an LLC and S Corp?

A:  In a nutshell, it’s the way the entity is taxed.  There are a few factors you need to consider when deciding how to structure your entity for tax purposes: how many members are involved in the decision making process, how much net income (after taxes) the business will make, future earnings projections and current payroll situation.  I recommend setting up a small business consult to discuss specifics because there are many factors at play.

Q:  Can you help me sell my business?

A:  No, I recommend a business broker or a financial advisor.  I can, however, help you understand the financial impact of that choice.  And, if given a few years prior notice to you selling, I can help you plan and make decisions to have good, clean books that will make your business transition smooth.  This is sometimes a selling point in and of itself!