Tax
Preparation
Done Right

WARNING: IRS Audits Rapidly Increasing…
How Confident Are You That Your Return is Accurate?
Could You be Missing Potential Deductions?

10 million tax payers missed out on a chance to get a bigger refund last year simply because they neglected to fill out one line on their tax return. Will you miss a similar opportunity this year?

Today’s tax laws are increasingly complicated and the rules for deductions and credits change year by year. Are you aware of all the deductions and credits that might be available to you this year, even on the most basic of tax returns? Perhaps you feel secure in your do-it-yourself tax preparation software, but let’s face it… There is no substitute for an experienced tax professional who can answer your questions and ask you the questions that might be key to saving you tax dollars.

With our tax return services you get:

N

Assurance that your return has been checked and double-checked for mathematical accuracy and errors that are commonly flagged by the IRS, resulting in fewer chances for contact by the IRS.

N

Tips for better managing your payroll withholding so that you can have the advantage of greater income all year long, rather than loaning that money to the government and waiting for it to come back in the form of your yearly tax return.

N

A list of common deductions that may benefit you in the coming year, and tips for limiting your future tax liability.

N

Electronic filing for a quicker refund.

Ready to come in for an appointment?

Our schedule is very full…but if you call us at (831) 251-0861 or email us we’ll give you two options for coming in right away! We will NOT make dealing with a tax professional as painful as it’s been in the past!

How Do Taxes for Freelancers and Santa Cruz County Gig Workers Work?

Key TakeawaysIf you had freelance or side gig income in 2025, you report it on Schedule C. If your net profit is $400 or more, you also file Schedule SE for self-employment tax. Even if you never receive a 1099, your freelance or side gig income is still...

How Long Should My Tax Refund Take? What Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Can Expect

Key TakeawaysMost federal tax refunds are issued within 10–21 days after the IRS accepts your e-filed return. E-filing with direct deposit is the fastest method, usually delivering refunds within about three weeks. Returns claiming credits like the Earned...

Are IRA Contributions Deductible for Santa Cruz County Savers?

Key TakeawaysTraditional IRA contributions may be deductible, depending on your income, filing status, and whether you or your spouse are covered by a workplace retirement plan Roth IRA contributions are not deductible, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are...

Santa Cruz County Taxpayers Filing in 2026: When Should You Hire An Accountant For Taxes?

Key TakeawaysIf your return is truly simple (one W-2, standard deduction, no investments or side income), tax software may be sufficient. If you have self-employment income, rentals, investments, multi-state issues, or major life changes, filing with a...

How Much Do I Have To Make To File Taxes With My Santa Cruz County Tax Preparer?

Key Takeaways For the 2025 tax year, a single taxpayer under age 65 generally does not need to file if total income is below $15,750 (assuming no special circumstances apply) Certain types of income, like self-employment income or taxable Social Security,...

How Do Trump Accounts Work For Santa Cruz County Kids?

Key TakeawaysTrump Accounts are long-term, tax-deferred savings accounts designed specifically for children Parents or guardians manage the account until the child turns 18, after which the child takes over Certain children (especially those born between...

Answers for Santa Cruz County Filers: Are People Getting Bigger Tax Refunds This Year?

Key TakeawaysYes, many filers may see larger refunds (potentially $300 to $1,000 more) based on current estimates The increase is largely tied to new tax cuts under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and outdated withholding during 2025 Whether a big...

What Do I Need To File My Taxes This Year With My Santa Cruz County Tax Pro?

Key TakeawaysBring valid government photo IDs and Social Security cards (or ITINs) for every person listed on your return to verify identities and prevent fraud. Collect all W-2s and 1099s, including the new Form 1099-DA for any digital asset or cryptocurrency...

Which Tax Credits Do I Qualify For? A Guide For Santa Cruz County Taxpayers

Key TakeawaysThe Child Tax Credit is up to $2,200 per child, with up to $1,700 available as a refundable payment even if you owe no taxes. Adoptive parents can now claim a credit of up to $17,280, with up to $5,000 of that amount now fully refundable. If you...

What Tax Changes Are Coming in 2026 For Santa Cruz County Filers?

Key TakeawaysTax rates didn’t change, but brackets and deductions did. Inflation adjustments mean more income is taxed at lower rates. The SALT deduction cap jumped to $40,400, making itemizing relevant again for many households. New deductions for tips and...