FAQ

In my experience, most simple returns (primarily W2 wages) can be completed in approximately 2.5 hours. More complicated returns or returns that require the filing of more forms (returns with 1099-NEC or other self-employment/rental income, extensive deductions, etc.) take longer. Most of my clients’ returns are completed in 2.5-5 hours. I bill hourly based on actual time spent on the return.

I’ve got you covered! My Enrolled Agent credential allows me to prepare state returns in all states. I’ve worked with clients with up to 23 state returns before – multi-state returns don’t scare me!

I charge hourly for tax services, and require a minimum $50 deposit before filing. For the remainder of the invoice, I give a two-week payment period. If you need to discuss a payment plan with me, please let me know. I understand the world of uneven annual income, and will do my best to work with you when I can. Book your spot with me early, and you’ll get my cheapest rates! For returns that must be completed in a short amount of time, rush fees may apply.

Enrolled Agents (EAs) are at the highest level of tax preparation. In order to become an Enrolled Agent, you must pass the Special Enrollment Examination – a comprehensive, three-part exam covering individuals, businesses, and representation. Enrolled Agents have unlimited practice rights, and they must complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years. I received my EA credential on 11/14/2018.

First? Breathe. Secondly, get all of your paperwork together. Third, let me know your situation. We’ll work through it together and get everything filed to get you tax compliant. The IRS does offer payment plans to folks with large tax bills who can’t afford to pay them all at once.  If you haven’t filed in a while, you’ll definitely have some failure-to-file penalties assessed by the IRS once we get you up to date. I know it can seem really overwhelming, but it’s important (and mandatory) to stay current on your tax obligations. Ignoring it will NOT make it go away. I’m here to help.

Absolutely! One of the reasons I became interested in taxes in the first place was my own life as an independent contractor living/working in multiple states per year (#artistlife). I’ll work with you to make sure we get all of your paperwork together for accurate filing, and can also talk you through keeping cleaner, more thorough records for the future if you’d like assistance.

Contact me via email or phone (email is preferred for initial communications) and we’ll set up a time and place to meet. I’m in East Memphis, but depending on your availability and location, chances are I’ll be able to meet you someplace that’s convenient for you. After our initial meeting, we’ll work together to determine the balance of in-person meetings vs. phone and email communication to complete your return in the way that’s most appropriate for you.

No problem! We can work together digitally. We’ll create secure folders for document transmissions, and we can have phone conferences or Zoom sessions.

Hey! It’s totally okay. Take a deep breath, and let it out. Together, we can work through your fears and anxieties (around your taxes, I mean…I’m not a therapist, but if you need one, I’ve got some great recommendations for you) and get you tax-compliant. I know this is one of those things that no one ever teaches you how to do, yet somehow we all have to do it. Let me help you learn about it; I’ll take care of the hard parts. Don’t push it off. Contact me today, and we’ll get the ball rolling.

Email me! I’m easily reachable at carly@carlydoesbooks.com, and I’m happy to answer any questions I can (or tell you that I have no idea what the answer is and will find the answer for you ASAP, if that’s applicable).