Question 1

When should I start tax planning for my business?

Accepted Answer

The best time is before year-end, while there is still room to make meaningful decisions — such as adjusting estimated payments, accelerating expenses, or changing entity structure. We also recommend quarterly check-ins so you are never surprised by a tax bill.

Question 2

What tax records do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, bring your prior-year return, income statements (P&L), balance sheet, payroll records, and any 1099s, W-2s, or K-1s. For business returns, we will also need details on major purchases, loans, and owner contributions or distributions.

Question 3

Do you prepare both personal and business returns?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We prepare individual, business, and trust returns, and we coordinate them so that business decisions do not create unexpected personal tax consequences.

Question 4

Can you represent me if I receive an IRS notice?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle IRS and state notices, correspondence audits, and payment negotiations. If a matter requires specialized representation, we will coordinate with the appropriate professionals.

Question 5

How often should my books be reconciled?

Accepted Answer

We recommend monthly reconciliation for most businesses. Monthly cadence catches errors early, keeps tax estimates accurate, and gives you reliable numbers for decisions.

Question 6

Do I need to clean up my books before we start?

Accepted Answer

No. We routinely clean up historical books and bring accounts current. Once caught up, we will put a simple monthly process in place so you stay current.

Question 7

What bookkeeping software do you support?

Accepted Answer

We work with QuickBooks Online, Xero, and other cloud-based platforms. If you are not on a system yet, we will recommend one based on your size, industry, and reporting needs.

Question 8

Can you handle payroll for my employees?

Accepted Answer

We support payroll processing, tax deposits, and quarterly/annual payroll filings. Many of our clients combine bookkeeping and payroll so the entire back office stays in sync.

Question 9

What does a fractional CFO or controller engagement look like?

Accepted Answer

We agree on a scope — monthly close, dashboards, forecasting, board reporting, cash management, or a combination — and a fixed monthly fee. You get senior-level guidance without the cost of a full-time hire.

Question 10

How do you price your services?

Accepted Answer

Most work is priced as a fixed monthly fee based on transaction volume, complexity, and the services included. One-time projects, such as tax returns or clean-up work, are quoted after an initial review.

Question 11

Are you licensed in my state?

Accepted Answer

C3CPA is licensed in New Mexico and California, and we serve clients nationwide. We work through secure cloud-based systems and can coordinate with local professionals when a state-specific issue arises.

Question 12

How do I get started as a new client?

Accepted Answer

Start with a consultation call or the contact form. We will discuss your needs, review your current records, and send a clear engagement letter outlining scope, pricing, and next steps.

What new clients ask us most.

Tax Planning & Preparation

Bookkeeping & Payroll

Compliance & Working Together