Look for professionals with recognized credentials, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA). Additionally, those with a higher learning degree, like a Bachelor's or Master's in accounting, and a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) demonstrate a commitment to proficiency and ethical standards. We offer expert virtual accounting services nationwide. 

Accountants assist business owners by managing complex financial activities, allowing you to focus on daily operations and growth. We help with crucial business decisions and ensure compliance with IRS regulations, rules, and tax compliance. 

We leverage secure online platforms and technology, such as cloud accounting (QuickBooks Online), to streamline the process for our nationwide client base. This ensures prompt, secure service, regardless of your location. We provide expert virtual accounting services nationwide. 

We offer a range of services, including:

• Tax services (planning, preparation, IRS authorized agent, and audit representation).
• Accounting and Bookkeeping services. 
• Professional financial planning services. 
• As a North Carolina-based firm, we also offer NC Notary Services. 

Business owners can choose from several structures, including Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Corporation, S-Corporation, or Limited Liability Company (LLC). It's vital to consider the requirements, costs, taxation, liability protection, and your long-term goals. 

• Sole Proprietorship is simple and inexpensive to start with less paperwork and no annual filings. 
• LLCs offer greater protection for personal assets, establish better business credit, and provide flexibility in how they are taxed. 
• S-Corps are hybrid structures where profits are generally taxed only once (pass-through taxation), making them a tax-saver structure for growing businesses. 

Estimated tax is the method used to pay taxes on income not subject to withholding, such as self-employment income, interest, dividends, rents, and alimony. Estimated taxes are typically due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15. 

To be deductible, an expense must be both ordinary and necessary. An ordinary expense is common and accepted in your industry, while a necessary expense is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business. Examples include rent, utilities, and marketing costs. 

The individual federal income tax return deadline is usually April 15. Yes, you can request an extension (IRS Form 4868) which generally extends the deadline to October 15. However, an extension grants more time to file, not more time to pay taxes-taxes owed are still due by the original deadline. 

If you are owed a refund, there is typically no penalty for filing late,  but you must claim the refund within three years from the due date. If you owe taxes, you must file as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest.

The IRS recommends keeping records supporting your tax return for 3 years from the date your tax return was filed or 2 years from the date the taxes were paid or you claimed a refund/credit. However, many key documents should be kept longer: 

• Tax Returns themselves should be kept Forever. 
• Supporting documents for tax returns should generally be kept 6 years. 
• Corporate Documents (charter, by-laws, deeds) should also be kept Forever.