About
Reviews
Jessica K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Due to COVID-19 concerns I now use either a DropBox for clients to leave their tax documents or Secure Portal to receive and share tax materials.
During the initial phone call we will discuss your current filing needs and what documents I will need to prepare your tax returns. This may be done via Zoom, FaceTime or another virtual tool. I will let you know what my fee will be. If you can scan documents we will set up the Secure Portal for you to send your tax documents to my Home Office. Once all documents have been received yout tax returns will be completed within one week.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I earned a B.A. with a major in Accounting and minor in Finance from Penn State in 1977 and have been preparing tax returns ever since. Each year I earn continuing education credits to keep up with the ever changing tax law.
Currently, I am the Vice President of the South Central Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society of Tax and Accounting Professionals and have been a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals for more than ten years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
My fees are well below the franchise offices and I offer a $30 referral coupon.
For 2020 tax return preparation, the most common of my fees are:
Form 1040 - $120*
Schedule A - $60
Schedule C - $175
Schedule D - $55
Schedule E - $75
PA State and Local - $35*
Identity Protection - $15*
*The minimum fee for preparing 2019 tax returns is $170.
How did you get started in this business?
While attending school in Swathmore, PA I worked for H and R Block and really enjoyed the interaction with clients and being to help them with that gloomy task of tax return preparation.
What types of customers have you worked with?
In my practice I have worked with many young famlies as well as those recently retired couples. Some self-employed folks have been clients for years.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Each school day morning I get to spend about an hour with three of my grandchildren while our daughter takes her oldest child to school. I am very fortunate to be have this opportunity to see them so often.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Find an experienced tax preparer near you who does not overcharge or have an excessive number of clients. This way you will get personal service from the owner of the tax preparation business.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Compared to the prior year, do I have all of my tax documents?
Do you have dependent children or parents and have their status changed. Just starting or completing college; eligible for the Child Tax Credit or Other Dependent Credit?
Have I summarized all medical expenses and charitable contrubutions?
Will the preparer be available if I need to call with a question or additional information?