Frequently Asked Questions

What if I cannot make my full tax payment?

Making a Federal payment:
If you are not able to make your full payment by the due date, please visit the following website for more information on setting up an installment agreement.
http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=243335,00.html

Making a Minnesota payment:
Visit the following website to learn more about making a partial payment if you are unable to pay your entire tax amount that is due.
http://taxes.state.mn.us/individ/pages/paying_your_taxes_payment_plans_balance_due.aspx

Can I pay my taxes by credit card?

Making a Federal payment:
You can pay your taxes via credit or debit card, but it comes with a fee.  Visit the following website to find out more about this. http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=101316,00.html

You can also set up an electronic funds transfer (EFTPS). Visit the following website to find out more about this. http://www.irs.gov/efile/article/0,,id=98005,00.html

Making a Minnesota payment:
Visit the following website to learn more about paying your Minnesota taxes by credit card.http://taxes.state.mn.us/individ/pages/other_supporting_content_pay_electronically.aspx

How long should I keep my tax records?

We recommend keeping your records for 6 years, but you can find out more information on particular documents by visiting http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p552.pdf.  

What do I need to bring for the preparation of my taxes?

We provide “Organizers” upon request either via e-mail or the U.S. Postal Service.  Many clients find this helpful in gathering documents for your tax preparation. We suggest you use this as a guide or checklist. If you have had significant changes occur (such as becoming a parent, the sale or purchase of property, or retirement), please bring your documentation with you. We are always available to answer any questions you may have.

Can you send my tax return to a 3rd party for me?

Legally we can ONLY send your tax return or any other personal information to a 3rd party if we first have our authorization form signed. We provide a copy of your tax return when we prepare it. We can also email you an electronic version if you request it, however, we need written consent to send anything to anyone other than yourself. This law is to protect the taxpayer.

What should I do if I receive a notice from Internal Revenue Service or a notice from the state?

Please let us know as soon as possible. We will need to see a copy of the notice to investigate why you received this. This can be faxed, e-mailed, mailed, or dropped off

How do I go about seeing if I receive a property tax refund or not?

Send us a copy of your current property tax statement and we will check to see if you qualify for a property tax refund. We typically check on this in the summer months. The deadline is August 15th of the following year that your statement is dated. i.e. You have until April 15, 2011 to determine if you receive a property tax refund from your 2010 property tax statement. These refund are sent out after August 15th , typically late September or early October. You can also track this refund online at www.taxes.state.mn.us.

Where is my refund?

You can check the status of your refund with the federal government at www.irs.gov.  Click on the “Where’s my refund?” icon at the right. You will need to provide your social security number, filing status, and the amount of your refund.  

You can check the status of your Minnesota refund at www.taxes.state.mn.us. Click on “Individual Income Tax” on the left. Click “Where’s my refund?” in the middle of the page. You will need to provide your social security number and the amount of your refund.