Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How do I get started as a new client?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to get started is to reach out through our contact form or by emailing info@dominionmind.com. We'll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your needs, gather some background information, and explain how we can help. There's no obligation and no charge for the initial conversation.

Question 2

What information do I need to bring to my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

For individual tax clients, bring your prior-year tax return, all income documents (W-2s, 1099s), records of deductions you plan to claim, and a government-issued ID. Business clients should also bring financial statements, payroll records, and any IRS or state correspondence received during the year. The more complete your records, the more efficiently we can serve you.

Question 3

Do you work with clients remotely?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with clients throughout Georgia and beyond using secure document sharing, video consultations, and electronic signatures. You do not need to visit our office in person to receive full-service tax preparation, planning, or accounting support.

Question 4

How do you charge for your services?

Accepted Answer

Our fees vary by service type and complexity. Tax preparation is typically priced per return based on the forms required. Ongoing accounting and advisory services are generally billed on a monthly retainer or hourly basis. We provide a clear fee estimate before beginning any engagement so there are no surprises.

Question 5

What makes Dominion Mind different from a national tax chain?

Accepted Answer

We offer year-round, relationship-based service — not just a once-a-year transaction. We take time to understand your full financial picture, proactively identify planning opportunities, and are available when questions arise throughout the year. Our clients work with the same professional consistently, not a rotating staff of seasonal preparers.

Question 6

When is the federal tax return deadline?

Accepted Answer

For most individuals, the federal income tax return is due on April 15. If April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day. An automatic six-month extension (to October 15) is available by filing Form 4868 by the original deadline — but an extension to file is not an extension to pay. Any tax owed is still due by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.

Question 7

What is the deadline for Georgia state taxes?

Accepted Answer

Georgia individual income tax returns are generally due on the same date as the federal return — April 15. Georgia also allows an automatic extension to file, but like the federal extension, it does not extend the time to pay any tax owed.

Question 8

What happens if I can't pay my tax bill by the deadline?

Accepted Answer

File your return on time even if you can't pay in full. Failing to file carries a steeper penalty than failing to pay. Once filed, you can request a payment plan (installment agreement) from the IRS or the Georgia Department of Revenue. We can help you set up a plan and, in some cases, negotiate a reduction through an Offer in Compromise.

Question 9

I received a notice from the IRS. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Don't ignore it — but don't panic either. Most IRS notices are routine requests for information or adjustments to your return. Read the notice carefully, note the response deadline, and contact us before replying. Responding incorrectly or missing a deadline can escalate the issue. We handle IRS correspondence on behalf of our clients regularly.

Question 10

Can you prepare returns for prior years I haven't filed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We prepare non-filed returns for individuals and businesses going back multiple years. Getting current with the IRS is important — unfiled returns can result in substitute returns filed by the IRS on your behalf, often with no deductions applied. We'll help you get compliant and minimize any penalties where possible.

Question 11

Do I need to file a Georgia return if I live in another state?

Accepted Answer

If you earned income from Georgia sources — such as wages from a Georgia employer, rental income from Georgia property, or business income from Georgia operations — you may be required to file a Georgia non-resident return. We can determine your filing obligations based on your specific income sources and residency status.

Question 12

What business entity structure should I choose?

Accepted Answer

The right structure — sole proprietorship, LLC, S corporation, C corporation, or partnership — depends on your liability exposure, tax situation, number of owners, and long-term goals. Each has different tax treatment and administrative requirements. This is one of the most important decisions a new business owner makes, and we strongly recommend consulting with us before filing formation documents.

Question 13

How often should I reconcile my business bank accounts?

Accepted Answer

Monthly reconciliation is the standard best practice. It catches errors, detects fraud early, and ensures your financial statements are accurate when you need them for tax preparation, loan applications, or business decisions. Waiting until year-end to reconcile twelve months of transactions is one of the most common — and costly — bookkeeping mistakes.

Question 14

What records should my business keep, and for how long?

Accepted Answer

Business tax returns and supporting documents should be kept for at least seven years. Payroll records should be retained for four to seven years depending on the type. Corporate formation documents, meeting minutes, and ownership records should be kept permanently. See our Record Retention Guide in the Tax Center for a full breakdown by document type.

Question 15

Do I need to make estimated tax payments?

Accepted Answer

If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal tax after withholding and credits, you are generally required to make quarterly estimated payments. This applies to self-employed individuals, business owners, and anyone with significant non-wage income. Underpaying can result in an underpayment penalty. We can calculate your required payments and set up a schedule.

Question 16

What is the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?

Accepted Answer

A bookkeeper records day-to-day financial transactions — categorizing expenses, reconciling accounts, and maintaining the general ledger. An accountant analyzes that data, prepares financial statements, handles tax compliance, and provides strategic financial advice. Many small businesses benefit from both: a bookkeeper for ongoing transaction recording and an accountant for tax preparation and planning.

Question 17

When should I start planning for retirement?

Accepted Answer

The best time to start is as early as possible — the power of compound growth means that contributions made in your 20s and 30s have dramatically more impact than the same contributions made in your 50s. That said, it's never too late to start. Whether you're just beginning your career or approaching retirement, we can help you build or adjust a plan that fits your timeline and goals.

Question 18

What is the difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA?

Accepted Answer

With a traditional IRA, contributions may be tax-deductible now, and withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. With a Roth IRA, contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free. The better choice depends on your current tax rate versus your expected rate in retirement, your income level, and other factors. We can model both scenarios for your situation.

Question 19

How much life insurance do I need?

Accepted Answer

A common rule of thumb is 10–12 times your annual income, but the right amount depends on your debts, dependents, income replacement needs, existing assets, and the cost of final expenses. Term life insurance is generally the most cost-effective option for income replacement. We can help you evaluate your coverage needs as part of a broader financial plan.

Question 20

What is estate planning and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and transfer of your assets during your lifetime and after your death. At minimum, most adults should have a will, a durable power of attorney, and a healthcare directive. If you have minor children, significant assets, a blended family, or a business, more comprehensive planning is essential. We work alongside estate planning attorneys to ensure your financial and legal plans are aligned.

Question 21

What is an IRS audit and how likely am I to be audited?

Accepted Answer

An IRS audit is a review of your tax return to verify that your income, deductions, and credits are accurate. Most audits are conducted by mail and focus on a specific item rather than your entire return. The overall audit rate is low — less than 1% for most individual filers — but certain factors increase risk, including high income, large charitable deductions, business losses, and home office deductions. Good recordkeeping is your best defense.

Question 22

What is an Offer in Compromise?

Accepted Answer

An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is an IRS program that allows qualifying taxpayers to settle their tax debt for less than the full amount owed. The IRS considers your ability to pay, income, expenses, and asset equity. Not everyone qualifies, and the application process is detailed. We evaluate OIC eligibility carefully before recommending it, since a rejected offer can complicate your situation.

Question 23

Can the IRS garnish my wages or levy my bank account?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the IRS has broad collection authority and can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and place liens on property if a tax debt goes unresolved. However, the IRS must follow a specific process before taking these actions, including sending multiple notices. If you've received a Final Notice of Intent to Levy, contact us immediately. There are options to stop or delay collection action while a resolution is pursued.

Question 24

How do I get a copy of my IRS tax records?

Accepted Answer

You can request a tax transcript directly from the IRS at irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript, or by calling the IRS. Transcripts are available for the current year and the prior three years. We can also request your IRS file on your behalf — including your full account transcript, wage and income transcript, and record of account — which is often useful when resolving discrepancies or preparing unfiled returns.

Working With Our Firm

Tax Preparation & Filing

Business Accounting & Bookkeeping

Personal Financial Planning

IRS Issues & Tax Problems

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