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Tax Guide

Our process

File your taxes in 5 simple steps

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Let's chat! Get started with a 30-minute free introductory phone consultation to go over your case. We do ask you, however, to pay a $50 retainer towards your tax preparation fees.

You’ll love our best-in-class tax questionnaire (TQ): organized, simple to use, interactive. Unlike other companies that would have you complete outdated PDF or Word documents, we built a ‘smart’ form that works inside your browser or mobile phone.

When we receive your documents, we will analyze your case and draft an electronic engagement letter (EL). This way, you are 100% aware of the job scope and total cost before we get started.

Our standard turnaround time is fifteen (15) business days after you sign the engagement letter.

Please let us know if you have an urgent case. We can provide rush service.

Once the document is ready, we’ll upload it to your secure portal and at that point, you will be asked to pay. Once you confirm that you are happy with your return, we will e-file it on your behalf. Please note that in certain cases the IRS does not allow e-filing (if that applies to you, we will provide instructions on how you can mail it to the IRS).

Frequently asked questions

1. What is your standard turnaround time?

Our standard turnaround time is up to fifteen (15) business days per filing year.

We value quality over speed, and unlike other firms, we do not work in silos. Every preparer at TFX (IRS Enrolled Agents or CPAs) works with a supervisor (also a CPA or an EA) to ensure that every return is prepared correctly and in the most optimal method for the client.

We understand that sometimes time is of the essence. That is why we also offer a rush service option*.

*Depending on the time of year and the complexity of your return, we may offer rush service: 3 to 5 business days from the time you sign our Engagement Letter. Rush service requires prepayment at the time of signing of the Engagement Letter and carries a surcharge of 50 or 100%. Please contact your tax consultant for a quote.

2. Does a supervisor review every prepared return?

Yes, every return is reviewed by at least two CPA/EA; every preparer works closely with their supervisor to ensure that your return is prepared optimally.

3. Will you be able to e-file the return or will I have to mail it?

We always e-file for the client whenever possible, and provide a confirmation document. In some cases, however, the IRS does not accept e-file and requires that the taxpayer snail-mail the return to the IRS with a wet signature. In this instance, we would prepare specific instructions for how to do so.

4. Do you offer discounts for long-term clients?

As part of our commitment to building long-term relationships, we offer an Early Bird Special to returning clients. 

5. Can I do the entire process with you through the website & email?

Absolutely yes. That’s the idea :) We want to make filing tax returns as easy as possible for you.

6. Can I provide documents in their original language?

If you have a local tax document (i.e. Certificat de Salaire or Lohnausweis), please upload it.

If you have a foreign corporation, we would ask you to upload your articles of incorporation, balance sheets, income statements, etc. We generally do not need a complete translation of the entire document, but depending on your situation, we may ask that you provide an English translation for certain items on the foreign document. We have staff that speak most major languages.

7. Do you also prepare non-US taxes?

With clients in 175 countries, we have developed strong relationships with local firms around the globe that can prepare your local (i.e. non-US) tax return. Our partner firms have been recommended by other clients and vetted by us. Please get in touch with us so we can assist.

8. Do you offer audit protection?

We stand behind the work that we do. If you are ever questioned by the IRS about a return that we prepared, we will review the letter for you and advise on the course of action that should be taken.

Specifically:

  • If we made a mistake in your return, we will find an amended return free of charge (this is a very, very rare occurrence).
  • If the return we prepared is correct but the IRS still has some questions about it, we'll advise on the best and simplest way for you to handle their inquiry. It may be as simple as calling them and speaking to an agent or mailing a letter to the agency.
  • If the IRS disagrees with the figures you provided to us that were used to prepare the return (for example, you omitted income from sale of stocks), we can file an amended return for you (this would be a payable service as you had not provided us correct information).
  • In very rare cases, the IRS might audit you. This happens to roughly 0.5% of filers (for incomes under $100k - full figures here: time.com/money/3820009/irs-tax-audit-chances/). In that case, we can offer our Representation Service, whereby we would take on your case and deal with the agency on your behalf.

For full details, please see www.taxesforexpats.com/expat-tax-advice/received-irs-letter.html.

9. What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all credit cards, PayPal, and wire transfer.

10. I have a chance to ask questions or make changes to my return after it is prepared?

Yes, certainly. Nothing is filed until you approve your return.

We will ask you to provide feedback when we prepare your return, including any changes you may want, or questions you may have about the return. We will then respond to each itemized question until you are happy with the result.

11. Can you prepare my return after I move back to the U.S.?

Yes, of course. We continue to file tax returns for our clients when they return to the U.S. We file U.S. tax returns for our clients no matter where they reside.

12. Do you prepare state tax returns?

Yes, of course. When we review your documents, we will determine if you have a state filing requirement https://www.taxesforexpats.com/services/tax-return.html.

13. Do you prepare amended returns?
14. I want to know how much tax I may owe from a potential job opportunity, can you help?

Yes, of course. We offer a Tax Projection service specifically for this need.

15. I received a letter from the IRS - can you assist?
16. Can you prepare just the state return if I already have a federal return?

Yes, we can prepare a standalone state return.  However, it comes with a minimum project fee of $550.  The state return costs $150 and so $400 will remain as credit on your account for future services.

17. Do you prepare non-personal returns (partnership, corporation, trust)?

Yes, certainly. We prepare all forms that the IRS may require, including Forms 5471, 8865, 3520, 3520-A.

When you complete your tax questionnaire, we will review and advise of what you may require, as well as prepare an engagement letter so you can see the costs itemized. No surprises.

18. Will I be able to contact my tax preparer?

Yes - of course. Your tax preparer (CPA or EA) will be ready to answer questions during the tax preparation process. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, we offer that as well. Once you create an account, click PHONE CONSULTATION in the left sidebar of your account. - www.taxesforexpats.com/services/consultation.html.