Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Q: What services do you provide?
A: We offer comprehensive tax preparation and representation services, bookkeeping, payroll, and Fractional CFO advisory solutions. Our clients include small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals across multiple states.
Q: Do you work with clients outside of New Jersey?
A: Yes! While we are headquartered in NJ, we support clients nationwide, including GA, CO, IL, CA, NY, and beyond. Most of our services can be delivered virtually.
Q: How do I get started as a new client?
A: Complete our new client intake form and upload your documents securely through SmartVault. We will then schedule a consultation to review your needs and next steps.
Tax Services
Q: What types of tax returns do you prepare?
A: We prepare individual (Form 1040), corporate (1120, 1120-S, 1120-C), partnership (1065), nonprofit (990), and related schedules (K-1, 199A, etc.).
Q: Do you handle IRS representation and penalty abatement?
A: Yes. As an Enrolled Agent (EA), Melissa can represent you before the IRS and state tax agencies. We handle audits, penalty abatements, appeals, and compliance issues.
Q: Do you guarantee results for IRS abatements or appeals?
A: No. While we diligently prepare and present your case, the IRS makes the final determination. We cannot guarantee a specific outcome.
CFO Advisory & Bookkeeping
Q: What is Fractional CFO Advisory?
A: It’s a flexible CFO service designed for small businesses. We provide financial dashboards, KPI tracking, cash flow forecasting, and strategic financial planning without the cost of a full-time CFO.
Q: How often do you meet with clients for CFO services?
A: This depends on your engagement level. Some clients meet weekly or biweekly, while others prefer monthly strategic reviews.
Q: Can you work with my existing QuickBooks setup?
A: Yes. We work with QuickBooks Online (QBO) extensively and can also review QuickBooks Desktop data when needed.
Fees & Policies
Q: How are your fees structured?
A: Fees vary depending on the service. Tax preparation may be flat-fee or hourly, while CFO advisory is typically a monthly retainer. Engagement letters clearly outline scope, pricing, and payment terms.
Q: Do you require deposits?
A: Yes. For most projects, we require a 50% deposit before work begins, with the balance due prior to delivery or submission.
Q: Are fees refundable?
A: No. All fees are non-refundable, as outlined in our engagement agreements.
Communication & Scheduling
Q: When are you available for client calls?
A: Client calls are available by appointment during designated hours: Tuesdays 2–4 PM and Thursdays 10 AM–1 PM. Use our scheduling link to book a time that works best for you.
Q: How do I contact you outside of call hours?
A: Please email us, and we will respond within 1–2 business days. For urgent matters, mark your email “URGENT” in the subject line.
Q: Do you meet in person?
A: Most services are handled virtually for efficiency and security. In-person meetings are available by special arrangement.
Secure Document Handling
Q: How do I send you documents securely?
A: We use SmartVault, a secure, encrypted portal for all document uploads and storage. You will receive a private invitation to your folder upon becoming a client.
Q: Do you accept documents by email?
A: For your security, we prefer all sensitive documents be uploaded to SmartVault. Limited exceptions may apply.