Why Virtual is the way to go?
While I thoroughly enjoy working with clients in a face-to-face setting and will continue to do so when I can, I also recognize that times have changed. Current technology has given us the opportunity to work with people from all over the country using the internet (Virtual), phone, fax, and email. Wherever you are located I can work with you. From a small rural town to a major metropolitan area, the internet gives you access to a range of providers, increasing your power to obtain the best service and price. Clients have found that working in this manner is convenient, affordable, and secure, regardless, of where you are located.
Security is the most important component of working in this manner. To address this issue, we use the Canopy Tax. Canopy Tax is the leading Cloud-based document storage system available to tax professionals. This system uses encrypted cloud technologies to transfer information electronically between us. Very secure and easy to use.
Here’s how the process works….
Schedule an appointment with me. You can schedule this appointment by going to our home page and clicking on ‘Schedule an Appointment.’ You will see available times. The typical appointments last less than 15 minutes.
Once we agree to move forward and work with each other you will get an email outlining the process to get set up. This process includes setting up your Canopy account or “Portal’, Completing the Tax Organizer, Executing the Engagement Letter, and uploading your tax documents.
Canopy Tax. You will receive an email inviting you to set up your Portal with Canopy Tax. You will establish a login (Email) and password. Once complete you will be able to upload documents.
Tax Organizer. I will upload a Tax Organizer into your portal. Please complete as best you can. The information obtained helps to ensure a smooth tax preparation process
Engagement Letter. I will upload your Engagement Letter into your portal. This form outlines the scope of services I will provide along with an estimate of prices.
You will also receive an E-sign notification. Follow the steps for E-signing. If the E-sign process doesn’t work, you’ll have to print the form, sign it, and upload it. This will outline our fees and scope of service.
Please let me know if you have an IP PIN. If you’ve been issued an IP PIN you must use it to file your taxes.
Once I receive your information preparation time takes between 2 - 7 days. Time is dependent on the complexity of your particular situation. I will let you know your turnaround time once I receive all of your documents.
Primary communication is done via email and text.
Once your return is completed I will schedule a phone appointment to review the documents and answer any questions. In most cases, I can make final changes during this appointment.
After you approve the Return, I will upload your E-filing documents (IRS Form 8879) for electronic signatures. This system uses a ‘Soft pull’ on your credit report and asks you a series of questions to verify your identity. This process does not affect your credit score or reporting.
I will also email you an invoice for the work completed. You can pay this online with debit, credit, and bank drafts. No charge for this service.
I will E-file your return with the IRS. I usually E-file returns within 24 hours after confirmation of signatures and payment. You will get an email with confirmation that your return was accepted by the IRS. Keep this for your records.
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If you have any issues during the year, please send me an email and let me know what’s going on. Upload any IRS documents you receive into your portal. Your portal is open to retrieve documents.
Hope this helps out. Remember, each person has a unique situation. While this is our basic process, we have the flexibility to modify it if your situation dictates. Either way, I will work with you to get your job done!
Curtis Elliott