About
At E.L.M. we are committed to putting our clients first. We strive to educate and will take the time to explain our position on tax matters. As an Enrolled Agent, I am certified in tax laws and committed to staying current with any and all changes no matter how small.
We work with our small businesses to help them learn how to financially manage their business to success. Knowledge is one of the keys to success and we help our businesses navigate the tax laws to ensure compliance and make sure they are able to take advantage of every deduction available.
I enjoy helping my clients work through their concerns and it always puts a smile on my face when someone receives more than expected.
My goal is to help individuals and small businesses keep as much in their pocket as possible while staying compliant.
With over 20 years in the business, I have a wealth of knowledge and experience that I love to share.
Reviews
Ginger T.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
New clients are a welcome member to our client family. The first step is to speak over the phone. We will gather some insight into what services you need from us. Once your appointment is made, we will then send you a link to our onboarding questionaire and document collection checklist. Our document collection tool is encrypted and state of the art. We will also communicate with you if necessary here.
At our meeting, we will go over the questionaire and collect your documents. Any additional documents needed will be determined at this meeting. We attempt to complete the process at this meeting. However, in some cases, this is not possible.
If an additional meeting is necessary, we will schedule it at this time. Otherwise, we will send you with a listing of additional items needed.
Interaction is the key to success and we do everything possible to keep you informed every step of the way.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in Business Administration with concentrations and additional training in Finance and Accounting. I have studied and worked in taxation for over 20 years and have the designation of Enrolled Agent. This means that I specialize in tax and can represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service as necessary.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
We charge by the form, schedule and worksheet necessary to complete your tax returns. Whereas, we can give general pricing based on the typical forms present in a given tax return, it is not precise due to the varying outcomes and how the outcome can affect what forms are present in a tax return. Our website will list general pricing for potential clients to review.
How did you get started in this business?
I wanted to be at home with my children. I discovered that I could work doing taxes in the evening. As it turned out, the company I began working with needed someone with my background and experience to help with their small businesses. I found that I enjoyed using my expertise to help people. Seven years ago, I decided to open my own business.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with individuals, small and medium-sized businesses, trusts and estates. I have also worked with attorneys to manage accounting requirements for incapcitated individuals.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently helped a client not only file 6 years of business and personal tax returns but also helped him avoid trust fund (payroll) tax penalties due to the improper dissolution of payroll requirements.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
When looking to hire a tax professional, there are some things to know (you can find a complete list at irs.gov):
1. Your return should show that they prepared your return under the Paid Preparer's section. If they are not listed, you should not have them continue with the filing of your return.
2. NEVER allow your refund to be deposited into the preparer's account. This is absolutely forbidden under tax statute.
3. Your tax preparation fee should never be based on your refund. The typical fees are based on time or form.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Before talking to a tax professional, you will want to know your time frame as well as your expectations. It is important to share this with your tax professional so that each of you are clear prior to the engagement. Have an expectation of the price you are willing to pay for the services you seek. This can save you time and at times sticker shock.