Tax Prep FAQ
FAQ: Getting Ready
Q: Do I need to sign a new engagement letter every year?
A: Yes, please. Our liability insurance requires it. I can't begin working on your return until I have it.
Q: Do I need to fill out the entire organizer every year?
A: Yes, because tax laws change each year. If we prepared your return last year, the questions will be a little more streamlined.
Q: Do I have to use the client portal?
A: If you can use the portal, it's faster, secure, and will save you money. It also provides you with convenient 24/7 access to your tax return and documents throughout the year. However, if sending documents is more convenient, please see below. Sending us sensitive information by email is not secure and not recommended. We cannot take any responsibility for identity theft or other issues if your information is exposed in an email you send.
Q: Do I need to use direct deposit for my refund?
A: We strongly encourage you to use direct deposit as it's the safest and fastest way to get your refund back to you, but it's not absolutely required. We ask for your bank information every year to be absolutely certain that nothing has changed and your refund won't be sent to a closed account.
Q: My license or ID is expired.
A: If HVTE prepared your return last year, we may not need a copy (your preparer will tell you). Otherwise, send us the front and back of your expired license. If you don't have ANY license, send a state photo ID, if available, or some other government issued photo ID.
FAQ: Send Us your Tax Documents
Q: Do you have a drop box where I can leave my papers?
A: Unfortunately, we don't have any type of drop box at the moment. You can deliver documents to the UPS Store as described above.
Q: Can I send my papers by FedEx, UPS, DHL, or other carrier?
A: Yes, our mailing address is a UPS Store mail drop and will accept deliveries from all carriers.
Q: I can't easily make copies or scan my documents. Can I send originals? Is it safe?
A: Yes, you can send originals if you have to. In most cases your documents come to you by mail so mailing them to us is just as safe. Our mail drop location is locked during off-hours so your mail is not sitting in an unlocked mailbox. (Note that if you want any original documents returned, an additional fee will apply.)
Q: Should I insure my package or use a trackable service?
A: Insurance is not necessary. Using a delivery service that provides tracking may give you additional peace of mind as to knowing where your package is, but in most cases your documents are sent to you by regular mail.
FAQ: Return Preparation process
Q: Do I need to meet with you before sending you my documents?
A: Usually no -- it's easier if we review your documents first, so we have context. But if you have questions before we start, please schedule a call.