Individual Tax Preparation

We will provide you with a personalized checklist after our initial conversation. Generally, we need your W-2s, all 1099 forms, prior year tax return, records of deductible expenses (medical, charitable, business), mortgage interest statement (1098), student loan interest, investment statements, and documentation for any major life events (home purchase, marriage, divorce, etc.).

Most individual returns are completed within 3 to 5 business days after we receive all documents. Returns with complex situations (multiple states, rental properties, stock compensation, AMT) may take 5 to 7 business days. We communicate timelines upfront and keep you updated throughout.

In most cases, yes. Tax software is designed for simple situations and cannot provide the judgment, strategy, and nuance that a CPA brings. We routinely find missed deductions and planning opportunities when we review self-prepared returns, often saving clients far more than our fee.

Yes. We help clients catch up on unfiled returns regularly. Filing proactively, before the IRS contacts you, typically results in lower penalties and better outcomes. We can prepare multiple years simultaneously and help negotiate penalty abatement where applicable.

Pricing is based on the complexity of your return, not an hourly rate. A straightforward W-2 return costs less than a return with rental properties, stock options, and multi-state filing. We provide a flat-rate quote before any work begins, no hidden fees and no surprises.

No. Documents are shared securely through our encrypted client portal and consultations happen by phone or video, whatever is most convenient for you. In-person meetings are available on request.