Question 1

What does professional tax preparation cost in Mountainhome?

Accepted Answer

Our tax preparation fees depend on your return's complexity, but we always provide clear pricing upfront with no surprises. Individual returns typically start around $150, while small business returns range from $300-800 based on complexity.

We offer free initial consultations to review your situation and provide accurate pricing before beginning any work. If you need additional services like tax resolution or audit representation, we credit your consultation fee toward that work.

Unlike chain preparers who rush through returns, our fees include time to discuss your situation, answer questions, and ensure everything is handled correctly.

Question 2

What tax documents should I bring for preparation?

Accepted Answer

Bring all income documents including W-2s, 1099s, business income records, and any other income statements. For deductions, you'll need receipts for business expenses, charitable donations, medical expenses, and other potential write-offs.

If you own rental properties (common in Monroe County), bring all rental income and expense documentation. Small business owners need profit and loss statements, business expense receipts, and equipment purchase records.

During your consultation, we provide a comprehensive document checklist tailored to your situation. If you're missing something, we can often work with available records and help reconstruct what's needed.

Question 3

Do you handle Pennsylvania and local tax returns?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we prepare all Pennsylvania state tax returns including PA-40 individual returns and various business filings. We also handle local earned income taxes required by many Pennsylvania municipalities.

Monroe County residents often have local tax obligations that many preparers overlook. We ensure all required local returns are filed correctly and on time, preventing penalties that can accumulate quickly.

Our Pennsylvania expertise means we stay current on state tax law changes and local municipality requirements affecting our clients year-round.

Question 4

Can you resolve tax problems from previous years?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Tax resolution is a major part of our practice, including unfiled returns, unpaid taxes, IRS audits, liens, levies, and penalty issues. We can file back returns and negotiate with tax authorities to resolve outstanding problems.

Many clients come to us after receiving threatening letters from the IRS or discovering they owe more than they can afford. We negotiate payment plans, penalty abatements, and other resolution strategies based on your financial situation.

Our approach focuses on getting you compliant while minimizing financial impact. We handle all communication with tax authorities, removing that stress from your life while working toward resolution.

Question 5

When is the best time to start tax preparation?

Accepted Answer

Start as soon as you receive your tax documents, typically early February. This allows thorough review of everything and time to address any issues before filing deadlines.

Early preparation means better appointment availability and more time for tax planning strategies. Waiting until March or April often means rushed service without adequate time for optimization.

Business owners benefit from quarterly meetings to manage estimated payments and year-end planning. This prevents surprises at tax time and typically results in better overall tax outcomes.

Question 6

Do you provide ongoing tax planning advice?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer year-round tax planning and financial advice. Effective tax planning requires ongoing attention, not just April preparation.

We help with major financial decisions including business purchases, retirement contributions, real estate transactions, and investment strategies. All have tax implications best addressed proactively rather than after the fact.

Clients receive guidance on quarterly estimated payments, business expense timing, and strategies that can significantly reduce annual tax liability. This ongoing relationship typically saves more than our service costs.

Tax Preparation Mountainhome, PA