Questions and answers about taxes, accounting, and working with us
Straight answers to the questions we hear most. Don't see yours? Ask during a free consultation.
What is an Enrolled Agent?
An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and enrolled to practice before the IRS. EAs pass a three-part IRS exam, complete annual continuing education, and can represent taxpayers in audits, collections, and appeals.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. The first 30-minute consultation is free. We use it to understand your situation, answer your questions, and quote a fee.
Do I need to meet in person?
No. Many clients work with us entirely by phone, video, and secure document upload. Our office at 101 N Brand Blvd, Suite 601 in Glendale is available for in-person meetings.
Do you only work with clients in the Glendale area?
No. Our office is in Glendale and many clients live nearby in Montrose, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, Burbank, and Pasadena, but we work with individuals and businesses anywhere in the United States. Remote clients send documents securely, meet with us by video, and sign electronically.
What is tax planning, and why is it important?
Tax planning reviews your financial and business situation in advance to find legal ways to reduce your tax. Planning during the year helps you avoid surprises and make better decisions.
When should I start tax planning?
Before the end of the tax year, ideally by October. It is never too late to review your situation, but most strategies close on December 31.
What is the difference between tax preparation and tax planning?
Preparation reports what already happened. Planning looks ahead and changes decisions while they can still affect the outcome.
What documents do I need for my tax return?
Typically W-2s, 1099s, mortgage interest (Form 1098), property tax bills, charitable receipts, brokerage statements, and records of business or rental income and expenses. We send a checklist tailored to you.
What if I can't pay my taxes in full?
File on time anyway to avoid the larger failure-to-file penalty. We can request an IRS or FTB payment plan on your behalf.
I received an IRS letter. What should I do?
Don't ignore it. Many notices have a response deadline. Send us a copy and we'll explain what it means and respond for you if needed.
Should my business be an LLC or an S corporation?
It depends on your profit, your salary needs, and California's added costs. We compare the options with your actual numbers.
Do I need to issue 1099s to contractors?
For payments made in 2026, generally when you pay a person $2,000 or more for services in the year. Collect a W-9 from every contractor before you pay them.
How long should I keep business records?
At least three years after filing for most records, and longer for property and asset records, which you keep until three years after you sell the asset. Employment tax records should be kept at least four years.
Can I deduct losses from my rental property?
Often up to $25,000 a year if you actively participate and your modified AGI is under $100,000, with a phase-out up to $150,000. See our rental property guide for the details.
What is depreciation on a rental?
Residential rental buildings are depreciated over 27.5 years. Land is not depreciated. Depreciation reduces taxable rental income each year, even when the property is gaining value.
Talk through your situation, free for 30 minutes.
Call, email, or send a message. We'll tell you plainly whether we're a good fit and what it would cost.