c Expand All C Collapse All

Frequently Asked Questions

c
How long should I keep copies of my tax returns and supporting documents?

The IRS recommends keeping tax returns and supporting documents for at least three years, but some situations may require longer retention.

c
How to file back taxes?

1. Ensure you have the documents needed for the filing year. Consider getting an IRS transcript for important documents like W-2s and 1099s.

2. Use the proper forms. Use the documents from that year, don’t file at 2021 return with a 2022 form. Check out the IRS website: Prior Year Forms and Instructions.

3. Consider hiring us to assist with prior year returns.

c
How to get an IRS Transcript?

1. Request a transcript online. You will have to make an account if you don’t already have one and navigate to the “Tax Records” tab. Typically, you will want wage and income transcripts.

2. Request a transcript by phone. Call the IRS at 800-908-9946. You will receive a copy of your transcript by mail.

3. Print a copy of the IRS Form 4506-T or IRS Form 4506-T-EZ. Complete the form and mail. Your transcript will be mailed to you.

c
What documents should I bring to my appointment or drop off?
  • Last year’s taxes. Both your federal and state returns. Having this helps to determine eligibility for credits and other things such as deferred losses.
  • Social Security and/or tax ID numbers. Have these identification numbers ready for yourself, your spouse, and all dependents (children, elderly parents and others).
  • Photo ID for all adults
  • IP PIN. If you, your spouse, or a dependent have been issued an identity protection PIN by this IRS.
  • W-2 forms
  • 1099 forms
  • Retirement account contributions
  • Educational expenses
  • Gambling winnings
  • Medical bills
  • Property taxes and mortgage interest
  • Charitable donations
  • Classroom expenses – if you’re a school teacher or other eligible educator
  • Bank account information for direct deposit
c
What happens if I owe taxes and can’t pay them all at once?

You can set up a payment plan with the IRS or your state tax agency. Set up some time with us and we can guide you through this process

c
What should I do if I receive a tax notice or letter from the IRS?

Contact your tax preparer as soon as possible. Most notices from the IRS are time-sensitive and may require more documents or document review. Your tax preparer can review the notice and advise you on the appropriate steps to take.

c
What to do if you haven’t received your W-2?

1. Call your company to see if the W-2s have been sent out. Verify your mailing address.

2. Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or talk to a local taxpayer assistance center (TAC). The IRS will contact your company about the missing document.

3. File an extension. Requesting an extension to file allows you more time to gather documents. However, this will not stop interest from accruing if you owe money. Talk with us about developing an estimated payment to reduce any interest you may owe.

4. File without a W-2 by using a Form 4852, substitute for Form W-2. You will need to estimate the wages received and the taxes withheld.

c
Where’s my refund?

“Where’s My Refund” is an online tool provided by the IRS that allows taxpayers to check the status of their federal tax refund. To use it, you’ll need to provide your Social Security Number, filing status, and the exact refund amount as shown on your tax return. The tool provides real-time updates on the status of your refund, from processing to approval and deposit or mailing date.

c
Why should I use an enrolled agent rather than an online tax tool like TurboTax?

Enrolled Agents (EAs) are highly trained and experienced tax professionals who can offer several advantages over online tax tools: Work through your complex tax situation, including looking at options when you have a payment due Assist with tax planning for the upcoming year Support with audit resolution – find peace of mind with a tax expert Year-round support – get tax questions answered at any time during the year Tax planning for the upcoming year

Resources

c
Important Dates 2024
  • January 16 – Estimated tax payments due for 4th Quarter
  • January 29 – Tax-filing season begins
  • January 31 – Form W-2 deadline
  • February 15 – Form W-4 deadline for tax-exempt status
  • April 1 – RMD deadline
  • April 15 – Tax Day Federal tax-filing deadline & HSA and IRA contribution deadlines & Estimated taxes due for 1st Quarter
  • June 15 – Estimated taxes due for 2nd Quarter & Tax deadline for Americans living abroad
  • September 15 – Estimated taxes due for 3rd Quarter
  • October 16 – Individual tax extension deadline & SEP and Simple IRA, Solo 401(k) contribution deadline
  • December 31 – 401(k) contributions deadline & Second RMD deadline
c
Where to file paper returns for Colorado?

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Ogden, UT 84201-0002

Facebook