Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often.
Getting started04
What documents do I need to prepare my tax return?
Typically you will need identification, Social Security numbers or ITINs for everyone on the return, income documents (W-2, 1099, K-1), records of deductible expenses, last year's return and any IRS letters you received. After your consultation we send you a personalized checklist.
Can you work with me if I do not live near your office?
Yes. We serve clients throughout the United States and abroad. Consultations can be held by phone or video, and documents are exchanged through a secure channel.
How are your fees determined?
Fees depend on the complexity of your situation, such as the number of forms, income sources and states involved. We provide a quote after the initial consultation, before any work begins.
Which languages can I use to communicate with you?
Our website and client communication are available in English, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Japanese and Korean. Let us know your preferred language when you contact us.
Personal & cross-border tax05
What is an FBAR and do I need to file one?
The FBAR (FinCEN Form 114) reports foreign financial accounts. US persons generally must file if the combined maximum value of their foreign accounts exceeded $10,000 at any time during the year. Separate FATCA reporting (Form 8938) may also apply. We can help you determine your requirements.
Does filing FBAR replace Form 8938?
No. The two reports have different thresholds, asset definitions and filing routes. FBAR is filed with FinCEN separately from the income tax return; Form 8938 is attached to an applicable return. Your circumstances may require one, both or neither.
What should I prepare after moving between states?
Bring your move dates, work locations and state income records. Residency periods and income sources should be assessed under the relevant states’ rules. For example, California distinguishes part-year residency and California-source income.
Does my visa alone determine U.S. tax residency?
No. For non-U.S. citizens, the green card and substantial presence tests are starting points, with exceptions, elections and treaty issues to consider. Provide travel records, immigration documents and prior returns; arrival or departure years can involve dual-status treatment.
Do I need to review income if I did not receive a 1099?
Yes. A missing information form does not by itself remove the need to report taxable income. Reconcile payments with your records, including side work and platform activity, and identify missing or incorrect forms before preparing the return.
Business & tax IDs05
What is the difference between an ITIN, EIN and SSN?
An ITIN is for individuals with a federal tax purpose who are not eligible for an SSN. An EIN identifies a business or other entity. They are not interchangeable. Start with who needs the number and the purpose for which it will be used.
Can a CAA review my passport for an ITIN application?
A CAA can authenticate documents within the IRS program’s permitted scope. The rules differ by document and applicant, especially for dependents. Confirm the review method and required documents before sending originals. The IRS makes the final ITIN decision.
Does an LLC with no profit still need a tax review?
Yes. No profit does not resolve every filing obligation. Review the LLC’s tax classification, ownership, transactions, elections and relevant state requirements. Bring the formation documents, EIN confirmation, bank activity and any foreign-ownership information.
If a marketplace collects sales tax, is my business finished with sales tax compliance?
Not necessarily. Direct sales, inventory, other physical activity and each state’s rules can still matter. Separate marketplace and direct sales, retain collection reports and review existing permits and filing frequencies before assuming no further action is required.
Which international tax numbers do you help with?
Our scope includes U.S. EIN/ITIN; Canada personal ITN and business BN/GST/HST; Australia TFN/ABN; and Malaysia TIN. Germany Steuer-ID and Italy Codice Fiscale services are for personal tax numbers only. We confirm purpose, documents and the application route first.
Filing & follow-up04
I received a letter from the IRS. What should I do?
Do not ignore it. Most notices have a response deadline. Keep the letter, avoid paying or replying before you understand it, and contact us — we will review the notice and explain your options.
Does a filing extension also give me more time to pay?
Generally, no. An extension gives more time to submit the applicable return, while tax usually remains due by the original payment deadline. Prepare an estimate, account for payments already made and check federal and state requirements separately.
Can you help with an unfiled year or an incorrect return?
We can review the year, filing history and supporting records to identify the next step. A missing original return and an amendment are different procedures. For individual returns, Form 1040-X may apply to a correction; state filings and refund claim periods need separate consideration.
Does an accepted electronic return mean my refund is approved?
No. Electronic acceptance and refund approval are different stages. Keep the filing acknowledgment and use the IRS refund tracker where applicable. Processing may require further review; a filing confirmation does not promise a refund amount or payment date.