The right tax professional does more than submit a form—they protect you from penalties, uncover deductions, and plan ahead so surprises don’t derail cash flow. Before you choose, ask these questions to gauge expertise, transparency, and fit. At Henriquez Accounting & Tax Services, we combine year-round planning with accurate preparation for individuals and small businesses. Explore our Tax Preparation, Accounting & Bookkeeping, and Business Consulting.
The 15 Must-Ask Questions
- What are your credentials? Enrolled Agent (EA), CPA, or attorney? How many years preparing returns like mine?
- What types of returns do you focus on? 1040, 1120S, 1065, multi-state, real estate, crypto, small business?
- How do you price? Fixed fee or hourly? What’s included (states, schedules, e-file, audit support)? Any add-ons?
- What documents do you require? Clear intake checklist, secure upload, deadlines, and organizer?
- How do you handle data security? Secure portal, MFA, encryption, and written privacy policies?
- Will you review last year’s return for missed opportunities? Deductions/credits, elections, carryforwards.
- Do you provide year-round support? Responses to IRS/state notices, mid-year questions, and planning check-ins.
- How do you handle estimated taxes? Safe-harbor approach, quarterly vouchers, and cash-flow projections.
- Can you help with entity choices? When S-Corp or LLC makes sense; reasonable compensation modeling.
- Do you support multi-state or remote work situations? Nexus, residency, and credits for taxes paid to other states.
- What’s your process & timeline? Intake → prep → reviewer QA → final e-file; typical turnaround windows.
- Who actually prepares and reviews my return? Your role vs. team members; escalation path and quality checks.
- How do you communicate? Portal messaging, email/phone/SMS, and response-time SLAs.
- Do you stand behind your work? What’s covered if there’s an error; representation at no/low additional cost.
- What planning opportunities apply to me? Retirement, HSA/FSA, credits, depreciation, and timing strategies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Refuses to sign as paid preparer or share PTIN/EIN.
- Promises specific refunds sight-unseen or bases fees on refund size.
- No written privacy or data-security policy; no secure portal.
- Won’t explain their review process or won’t provide an engagement letter.
How We Work (Simple, Secure, Thorough)
- Intake & quote: 5-minute discovery + secure checklist and portal access.
- Preparation: Senior preparer + reviewer; we flag missing items early.
- Planning add-ons: entity guidance, quarterly estimates, and deductions roadmap.
- File & follow-through: e-file confirmations, vouchers, and notice support.
What You’ll Get Working With Us
- Transparent pricing and timelines—no surprises.
- Secure portal with organized checklist and due dates.
- Return prep for 1040, 1120S, 1065, and multi-state filings.
- Year-round planning: estimates, deductions, and entity advice.
FAQs
Can you work 100% remotely?
Yes—secure portal, e-sign, and e-file nationwide; bilingual support available.
What if I’m behind on filings?
We can file prior years, set up payment plans, and handle notices so you can get current with less stress.
Do you help small business owners too?
Absolutely—S-Corp/partnership coordination, quarterly estimates, payroll and sales-tax guidance, and year-end planning.
Ready to choose the right tax pro?
Get straight answers to all 15 questions—and a clear plan for this year’s return. Schedule Consultation
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