Resources
Helpful tax resources
Key dates, practical checklists, and plain-language answers to help you prepare for your appointment.
Key dates
Common federal tax deadlines
These are general dates. They move when they fall on a weekend or holiday and can change by year, so please confirm the dates for the current tax year.
| Date | What it is |
|---|---|
| January 31 | Employers send W-2s, and payers send 1099-NEC forms, to recipients |
| March 15 | Partnership and S corporation returns due (extension available) |
| April 15 | Individual and C corporation returns due; first-quarter estimated payment; extension request deadline |
| May 15 | Texas franchise tax report due for applicable businesses (other states have their own dates) |
| June 15 | Second-quarter estimated tax payment |
| September 15 | Third-quarter estimated payment |
| October 15 | Extended individual returns due |
| January 15 | Fourth-quarter estimated payment |
Be prepared
Document checklist
Gather what applies to you before your consultation.
For individuals
- Photo ID and Social Security numbers for everyone on the return
- W-2s and 1099s
- Last year’s return
- Mortgage, property tax, and charitable giving records
- Education, childcare, and health coverage forms
- Any tax notices
For businesses
- EIN and entity documents
- Profit and loss and balance sheet
- Bank and credit card statements
- Payroll and contractor records
- Asset purchase and sale records
- Prior-year business returns
Please do not email Social Security numbers, bank details, or tax documents. We will arrange a secure exchange when your consultation is scheduled.
For businesses
Business resources
Practical starting points for owners and teams.
Choose and confirm your structure
Your entity type (sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, S or C corporation) shapes your filings and payments. Review it when your business changes.
Track estimated taxes
Owners often make quarterly estimated payments. Set aside funds regularly rather than at year-end.
Mind state and local rules
Income, franchise, payroll, and sales and use tax rules differ by state. Review each state where you operate or sell.
Keep contractor and payroll records
Maintain clean records of wages and payments to contractors so year-end reporting is accurate.
Government contracts
Getting started with government contracting
Doing business with government customers involves its own registrations and rules. These are general starting points, and we are happy to help you think through them.
Readiness checklist
- Defined products or services and a clear value proposition
- Business formation documents and EIN
- A registered business profile in SAM.gov, which must be renewed annually
- Your NAICS codes and a review of small business size standards
- Past performance, references, and capability statement
- Accounting and records that can support contract requirements
Helpful places to learn
- SAM.gov for registration and published contract opportunities
- The U.S. Small Business Administration for guidance and small business programs
- APEX Accelerators and similar local programs offering contracting assistance
- Agency small business offices for upcoming needs
Program names, requirements, and thresholds change over time. Confirm current details at the official source.
Good habits
Year-round tips
Keep records together
Store receipts, statements, and tax forms in one place all year. It saves time and reduces the chance of missed deductions.
Separate business and personal
Use separate accounts for business activity. It simplifies your records and makes your return easier to prepare accurately.
Review withholding after life changes
A new job, marriage, a new child, or a major purchase can change your tax picture. Check in early rather than at filing time.
Open and read tax mail
Notices have deadlines. If you receive one, contact us promptly so you have time to respond.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a refund and a balance due?
If your payments and withholding exceed your tax, you receive a refund. If they fall short, you owe the difference. Neither is good or bad; it reflects how closely your payments matched your liability.
Can you help my company pursue government contracts?
We provide support for companies exploring or pursuing government contracts. Visit our Government page and reach out to discuss your situation.
What happens if I cannot file by the deadline?
You can generally request an extension of time to file, but an extension to file is not an extension to pay. Contact us early so we can discuss your options.
How long should I keep tax records?
Record-keeping periods vary by document and situation. As a general practice, keep returns and supporting records for several years, and ask us about your specific case.
Why shouldn’t I email my documents?
Regular email is not a secure way to send sensitive information. We arrange safer methods during your consultation.
Ready to talk?
Tell us about your situation by email and we will follow up to schedule a consultation, in person or virtually. Your first conversation is about understanding what you need.