Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge for tax preparation?
For tax preparation, your fee is based on the complexity, expertise required, and amount of time required to complete your return.
Paid returns include up to two hours of post-filing assistance at no charge.
Fees generally increase a small amount every year. For an amusing but accurate look at industry-wide increases in 2022, take a look at this YouTube video.
Paid returns include up to two hours of post-filing assistance at no charge.
Fees generally increase a small amount every year. For an amusing but accurate look at industry-wide increases in 2022, take a look at this YouTube video.
How much do you charge for your other services?
For year end tax planning and business planning, I charge an hourly rate of $180/hr, billed in half hour increments with a minimum of one hour.
For audit assistance (examples include tax account research and responding to tax agency letters), I charge an hourly rate of $300/hr.
For audit representation (such as an in-person audit at an IRS field office), I charge an hourly rate of $450/hr.
Engagement letters which describe the services provided are required to be agreed upon prior to initiation of services.
For audit assistance (examples include tax account research and responding to tax agency letters), I charge an hourly rate of $300/hr.
For audit representation (such as an in-person audit at an IRS field office), I charge an hourly rate of $450/hr.
Engagement letters which describe the services provided are required to be agreed upon prior to initiation of services.
What is your "Giving Back" program?
I strongly believe in trying to support local community organizations. At no additional cost to you, RLE Taxes will make a contribution to a charitable organization of your choice. Together, we can make a difference.
Do you offer discounts to returning clients?
Yes, I have a loyalty program that increases your percentage discount for each year you've been with RLE Taxes.
Are you accepting new clients?
RLE Taxes is only accepting new business from current clients (dependent returns, new businesses/entities, or estates/trusts). Occasionally I'm able to start working with brand new clients already on extension during the summer months.
Where are you located?
My office is in a small office park in San Diego, very close to Hazard Center in Mission Valley. See the Contact page for directions.
What is an "Enrolled Agent"?
Enrolled agents are licensed by the IRS. They are subject to a suitability check and must pass a three-part Special Enrollment Examination, which is a comprehensive exam that requires them to demonstrate proficiency in federal tax planning, individual and business tax return preparation, and representation. They must complete 72 hours of continuing education every 3 years.
Enrolled agents may generally represent any taxpayer regarding any tax matter before any IRS office, not including Tax Court.
Enrolled agents may generally represent any taxpayer regarding any tax matter before any IRS office, not including Tax Court.
What is your "Satisfaction Guarantee"?
My goal is for you to be happy. You may not be pleased with your bottom line refund or balance due (that's the government, not me!), but you should leave happy that I've explained everything to your understanding and offered suggestions and advice about improving things going forward. However, if you decide you're not happy with my services and decide not to file the returns, I will not charge you beyond an office consultation fee.
"What is your "Accuracy Guarantee"?
I stand behind my work and recognize that you rely on me to interpret and apply complex tax laws. All paid returns come with my Accuracy Guarantee. If I make a mistake completing your return, I will provide you with up to three hours of free Audit Services, amend your tax returns for free, and pay any applicable accuracy related penalties up to $1,000.
RLE Taxes will not be responsible for any additional taxes, interest, non-accuracy related penalties, or other fees.
RLE Taxes will not be responsible for any additional taxes, interest, non-accuracy related penalties, or other fees.
How long will it take to get my refund?
The IRS says you can generally expect your refund in less than 21 days. You can check your status 72 hours after you efile by going to the IRS tool, "Where's My Refund?" You'll need your social security number, filing status, and exact refund amount.
California says you should get your refund 7-10 days after it's been electronically filed. Check your CA refund status here.
California says you should get your refund 7-10 days after it's been electronically filed. Check your CA refund status here.