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Common Tax

Questions Explained

Carolina Business Services

Fast, Efficient, and Personalized Tax Preparation Services

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Common Frequently Asked Questions Explained

Carolina Business Services

  • How do you ensure my taxes are accurate?

    With over 40 years of tax preparation experience, we feel strongly that our tax preparation method provides accurate results with all the credits and deductions possible for you. 


    We take a step-by-step approach. We listen to you, then analyze the data for your best tax advantage before we enter your information into the tax software system. 


    Our tax knowledge, experience, and computer analysis guarantee you the most accurate tax return.

  • Will my personal information be kept confidential and secure?

    Absolutely! We take great care to keep your information private and protected. 

    • All email communication for sensitive information is encrypted. 
    • We never share your data with anyone without your written authorization. 
    • Outdated paperwork is cross-cut shredded for extra security. 
    • We protect our computer systems against cyber threats. 

    Get your income taxes prepared with confidence that we take your information seriously and keep it confidential.

  • What paperwork do I need to bring with me to your office?

    The IRS requires us to retain a copy of each person's photo ID and social security card along with the dates of birth for each person on the tax return. 


    Also, we need the source documents of your income (W2s, 1099Rs, etc.). If you expect to deduct expenses or receive credits, we need your information about those items. In most cases, we do not need to see your actual receipts. 


    Get the Details Here

    or 

    Download Our Tax Planning Checklist

  • How do I know you will find all my deductions and credits?

    We'll guide you through identifying all your deductions and credits in our Personal Question & Answer Tax Interview ensuring you get the maximum refund possible. 


    All you do is answer simple tax-related questions. We take care of all the calculations and let you know if you are missing information that will save money on the taxes that you owe. 


    Give us a call or drop in today!

  • Why should I use a professional tax preparer instead of doing my tax return online or with a franchise company?

    The Complex Federal and State Tax Codes are forever changing. As professional tax preparers, we continually stay up-to-date with those changes. 


    Our knowledge and experience will ensure you can take advantage of the deductions and credits you are entitled to receive under the current tax regulations. 


    Also, we help with complex tax situations or problems you may encounter. And we clearly explain the tax implications concerning different actions you may take without tax jargon. 


    We love answering your questions and concerns. That's why we provide Fast, Efficient, and Personalized Tax Preparation Services for you.


  • I work in more than one state. Can you prepare my taxes for each state?

    Yes, we can complete any state tax return besides the federal one. We often prepare income tax returns for clients who work in multiple states. 


    For example:

    • Construction workers who work in multiple states
    • Evangelists based in 2 states
    • Move to another state during the tax year with W2 or 1099 for both states.

  • I do not live close to Rutherford County, NC. Can you still prepare my taxes?

    Absolutely! We have a secure email portal for exchanging all the necessary documents. We can complete any state tax return in addition to the federal one.

  • We are temporarily living and working abroad. Can you help us?

    Yes, we prepare taxes for US citizens living abroad.

Tax Refunds

  • How soon can I get my federal refund after filing my taxes?

    Typically the IRS sends the majority of refunds within three weeks of when you file your taxes electronically. 


    On the other hand, if you choose to file a paper return through the US Mail, you may wait for 6-8 weeks to receive your refund. 

  • Where's My Federal Refund?

    IRS WEBSITE:

    To check the status of your federal income tax refund, go to the IRS website "Where’s My Refund" tool  https://www.irs.gov/refunds


    You will need the following information:

    • Social Security number
    • Filing status
    • Exact refund amount as shown on your return

    IRS OFFICIAL MOBILE APP

    You can locate and download the IRS2Go app from Apple's App Store, Google Play Store, or Amazon Appstore.

  • Where's My North Carolina Refund? Plus More Information

    Follow the Directions https://eservices.dor.nc.gov/wheresmyrefund


    You will need the following information:

    • Your Social Security number

    • The exact amount of your refund


    2023 Tax Year per the NC Department of Revenue: The average processing time for all refunds issued was three weeks for electronically filed returns if the refund was not held up for additional fraud inspection. However, most refund checks were issued within approximately four weeks; some may have taken longer.  


    For the Latest Current Year Refund Information: https://www.ncdor.gov/refund


  • Where's My South Carolina Refund? Plus More Information

    To check the status of your South Carolina state refund online, 

    go to https://mydorway.dor.sc.gov/?link=refund


    Enter your: 

    • SSN/ITIN Number 
    • The Exact refund amount from your SC tax return. 

    Follow the instructions for complete information about your refund.


    For more South Carolina state refund and tax information:

    https://dor.sc.gov/tax/individual-income/faq


    https://dor.sc.gov/refund


Taxes and the IRS

  • Have You Tried the IRS Mobile App?

    The IRS2Go app is an official Internal Revenue Service app that offers various user-friendly features. You can use it to make tax payments, check your tax refund status, and more. 


    In addition, the IRS provides free tax tips during tax season and throughout the year. By signing up for these tips through the app, you'll receive helpful information about e-filing and tax credits in your email. 


    The app provides easy access to local IRS office phone numbers and social media channels, including Twitter, YouTube, and Tumblr.


    You can quickly locate and download the IRS2Go app from popular app stores such as Apple's App Store, Google Play Store, or Amazon Appstore.


  • What happens if I cannot file my federal taxes by the April 15 deadline?

    You can get a 6-month extension to file by filling out the IRS Form 4868, which provides a new October 15 due date. Unfortunately, you will not get an extension for any tax payments due. 


    IRS states you should estimate any taxes owed and pay by the regular deadline to avoid possible penalties. 


    Also, the extension must be filed by the regular April 15 due date.


    We are happy to answer your questions and file this for you.


  • I owe taxes and can't pay. What's next?

    File your return on time to avoid penalties. Then, arrange a payment plan with the IRS to pay your taxes over time. We can help you navigate this process and find the best solution for your situation.

  • I made a mistake on a previous federal tax return. What's Next?

    The IRS has provided Form 1040-X to file an amendment to a previous year's tax return. 


    Give us a call, send an email, or stop by. Even if you or someone else prepared your return, we are happy to answer your questions and help file the amendment.


  • Can I deduct medical expenses?

    Yes, you can claim medical expenses on taxes. For the tax year 2022, the IRS permits you to deduct the portion of your medical expenses that exceeds 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). 


    However, not everyone can claim medical expenses on their taxes. It only works if you itemize deductions instead of taking the standard deduction. 


    Be aware that the regulations and policies of the IRS are subject to change without prior notice. 


    Rest assured. We are committed to informing you of the latest tax year details. Let us know your specific needs; we'll do our best to assist you.


  • Explain the difference between a tax credit and a tax deduction

    Tax credits and tax deductions are two methods to lower your tax bill, but there are distinct differences. 


    A tax credit reduces your tax bill by the specific amount of the credit. If you do not owe any taxes, refundable credits can even give you a refund. (Note: A non-refundable credit will not provide a refund if you do not owe taxes)


    On the other hand, a deduction is an expense you can subtract from your income before calculating your tax bill. But, the value of the deduction is capped by the income tax bracket you're in.


    For example, if you have a $100 tax credit, your bill is reduced by $100. However, if you have a $100 deduction and are in the 22% tax bracket, it only reduces the amount you owe the IRS by $22.


    So, in this example, the tax credit gives you $100, while the tax deduction is only worth $22. 


    Deductions reduce your tax liability by a percentage, but sometimes, credits can actually put money in your pocket.


  • What is the difference between IRS Forms 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, and W-2?

    Many IRS rules apply to each of these forms. Detailed information is available from the IRS website for the 1099 Form or the W2 Form


    Or we're always available to answer any tax-related questions. 


    EMPLOYEE INCOME

    Employers use the Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement to report compensation paid to their employees. 


    NON-EMPLOYEE INCOME

    Individuals who are not employees but work as independent contractors and receive payment for their services will be provided with a Form 1099-NEC at the end of the year if their earnings are $600 or more.


    Individuals who receive compensation and are not employees or independent contractors are given Form 1099-MISC for any miscellaneous income such as rent, prizes, awards, healthcare payments, or payments to an attorney.


Taxes and the Family

  • I pay the entire nursing home cost for my parent. Can I deduct those expenses on my tax return?

    It depends. Suppose you, your spouse, or your dependent is primarily in a nursing home for medical care. Then,  the entire nursing home cost (including meals and lodging) is deductible as a medical expense. But, if that person is in a home primarily for non-medical reasons, then only the cost of the actual medical care is deductible as a medical expense - the meals and lodging cost is not deductible. 


    For more information and requirements, give us a call, (828) 287-9595.

  • We just had a baby. Is there a tax credit available?

    Yes, even if the baby is born on the last day of the year, you are eligible for the Child Tax Credit. You will need the baby's social security number to apply for the tax credit. If you haven't received the SSN by April 15, we can file an extension or amend your completed return once you have the SSN. The amount of the credit may vary from one year to the next. 


    Contact us for all the details.

Get In Touch if You Have Other Questions

Let Us Know...

 If you don't find the answer you are looking for or need specific advice on your tax situation, we encourage you to reach out to us. We provide personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances.


Whether you're an individual taxpayer, a small business owner or partnership, work in multiple states, or any other tax situation, we have the expertise to assist you in navigating the complexities of federal and state income tax regulations.


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