Answers to what we're asked most often. Don't see your question? Just reach out.
Both CPAs and EAs can prepare tax returns and represent you before the IRS. An EA is federally licensed specifically in taxation, which means the credential is entirely focused on tax law and IRS representation rather than the broader scope a CPA license covers. For most individuals and small businesses, an EA is well equipped to handle preparation, planning, and any IRS correspondence that comes up.
It depends on the volume of transactions, the number of accounts being reconciled, and whether your books need a clean-up first. We'll give you a clear, specific quote after a short conversation about your business — there's no one-size-fits-all number we'd feel right quoting blind.
Tax preparation is filing an accurate return based on what already happened during the year. Tax planning happens throughout the year and is about making decisions — on timing, structure, and contributions — before it's too late to affect the outcome. Preparation looks backward; planning looks forward.
Yes. Falling behind is a common starting point, not a disqualifying one. We'll assess how far behind things are, get your books caught up and reconciled, and then set up a monthly rhythm going forward so you don't end up back in the same spot.
Yes. We serve individuals and small businesses across St. Louis County and the surrounding area, and most of the work — document sharing, calls, and reviews — can be handled remotely.
It depends on your income level, how you want to be taxed, and your liability concerns — there's no single right answer. This is exactly the kind of decision tax planning is meant to walk through together before you file paperwork you may want to revisit later.
