Frequently Asked Questions
What is an EA (Enrolled Agent)?
Enrolled Agents are tax experts. EAs are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize in taxation and also have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. EAs must pass a three part comprehensive examination which covers all aspects of the tax code, or have worked at the IRS for five years in a position that regularly interpreted and applied the tax code and its regulations. Candidates must also pass a rigorous background check by the IRS.
What is the difference between an EA versus a CPA, attorney, or other tax practitioner?
Only Enrolled Agents are required to demonstrate to the IRS their competence in all areas of taxation, representation and ethics before they are given unlimited representation rights before the IRS. All EAs are federally licensed and specialize in taxation, unlike attorneys and CPAs, who are state licensed and who may or may not choose to specialize in taxes. Registered tax return preparers have passed a minimal competency test on tax forms for individuals, and have only limited representation rights.
Can you verify your credentials before I give you all my information?
Yes, and I absolutely encourage you to verify any tax preparer before working with them to protect yourself. Whether at my home office or going mobile I always carry copies of my credentials and business certificate to show upon inquiry. I also post a picture of me on my media advertising so that the person you see is the person you will be meeting and working with. Your personal and financial information will not be shared with any third party without disclosure and your written consent--this is also the law. The security of your personal and financial information are of my top priorities!
What should I bring or have ready for our appointment?
- You should have available all W2s, 1099s, and other important tax documents.
- For business and rental activities you should have available a profit and loss statement or equivalent income/expense summary report.
- You should also bring your prior year(s) tax return in case of any carryovers that need to be carried forward.
- If you have dependent(s) then you should bring their social security card(s) and know their date of birth(s).
- Bring a checkbook or know your routing and account numbers in case you are due a refund that you may want to receive faster using electronic direct deposit.
Can you tell me more about your mobile service and its benefits?
I offer mobile service in San Jose, CA and other nearby cities. I can travel outside my locality but additional rates may apply. These are some of the main benefits of my mobile service:
- Save time from having to commute and money from using gas or public transportation.
- You'll never forget to bring any tax docs or some other important piece of information since its all in your home or computer.
- I especially tailor to those that may have disabilities, health problems, or mobility issues where going out can be very difficult.
- I am child and pet friendly. I know how hard and expensive it can be finding day care or a facility that will allow pets.
Most tax returns I prepare are done while you wait and within 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on how simple or complex your return is. You will also receive your hard copies before I leave and electronic returns are e-filed when I return to my home office.
Mobile service available depending on availability and may be limited during peak hours of the tax season.
Why should I choose you over TurboTax or some other cheaper online or over-the-counter software?
I'll be honest, if you just have a simple return to file then using TurboTax or similar DIY provider "might" be your most cost-effective route. I say "might" because of their advertising gimmick of offering free or low cost federal filing but then charge you when you have to file state, and sometimes additional fees may apply if you choose to e-file and use refund direct deposit.
I know I already beat the big firms and CPAs as far as rates, so I price my fees and offer mobile service to compete with the likes of TurboTax which already fails in human interaction and intuitiveness.
Some of my clients just prefer to hire a professional for help while the bulk of my clients have more complex tax matters and having a professional is the superior alternative for them. In the end, all my clients want peace of mind that their tax returns are done correctly, that the most advantageous positions are taken, and that any due refunds have been maximized.
I am moving to another part of the state/country/world, can you still do my taxes?
I live in another part of the state/country/world, but I like your rates can you do my taxes?
Yes, and I would be flattered to do so knowing you can easily go to someone else closer, although I know good relationships and good deals can also be hard to come by. I have a few clients throughout the United States and a few currently living abroad that I feel honored to still keep in touch with and help out. With smartphones, fax machines, internet, and email, I will make it easy for us to work together even though we may not be face to face.
Can you take a look at my prior year(s) taxes? How much would you charge for this?
I would be happy to take a look at your prior year return(s) and see if there were any errors, omissions, or missed deductions or credits. I don't charge anything for reviewing. Only if we have to prepare and file an amendment or original return will my rates apply.
How long does it take to receive my refunds?
- For electronically filed federal returns it usually takes within 10 to 14 days, and 21 days at the longest for direct deposit.
- For paper filed federal returns it usually takes 6 to 8 weeks for processing and issuance of refund check by mail.
- For electronically filed CA returns it usually takes 5 to 10 days for direct deposit.
- For paper filed CA returns the wait time is usually 1 month for processing and issuance of refund check by mail. You can use the Track My Refund links in the Tools Menu of this webpage to see the status of your refund.
Electronic Direct Deposit of Refunds
FREE
Mobile Service
NOT AVAILABLE at this time within San Jose, Santa Clara, Campbell, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga cities.
Additional rates apply traveling outside locality. Please contact me for quote.
Mobile service availability may be limited during peak hours of the tax season.
I can accept payments by cash, check, or major debit/credit card (subject to merchant transaction fee).