Helpful basics, practical checklists, and common answers.

Most tax and bookkeeping problems are not "hard." They are usually documentation problems, timing problems, or organization problems.

This page is here to keep things simple. If you still have questions after reading, book a call and I'll point you in the right direction.

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Document checklist for tax prep

W-2 individuals

Upload what applies:

W-2s (all employers)
1099-INT / 1099-DIV (banks, brokerages)
1099-B (brokerage sales summary, if applicable)
1099-R (retirement distributions)
SSA-1099 (Social Security, if applicable)
1098 (mortgage interest, if applicable)
Property tax statements (if applicable)
Charitable contributions summary (if applicable)
Childcare expenses (provider info + amounts, if applicable)
Prior-year return (helpful, not required)

Side income / Schedule C

In addition to the W-2 items above:

1099-NEC / 1099-K (if received)
Income summary if you do not have 1099s (spreadsheet is fine)
Expense summary by category (or bookkeeping access)
Mileage totals (business miles, commuting, personal)
Home office details (if applicable): square footage, rent or mortgage, utilities
Business equipment purchases (computers, tools, etc.) with dates and amounts

Small S-corp

Common items include:

Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet (or access to QBO/Xero)
Payroll summaries (from your payroll provider)
Any 1099s issued and received
Owner distributions detail (amounts and dates)
Business credit card and loan statements (if not already in bookkeeping)
Prior-year return (very helpful)

How document sharing works

I use a secure Google Drive shared folder and a checklist so everything stays organized in one place. It reduces back-and-forth and keeps the process calm.

If you prefer a different workflow, tell me on the call and we'll keep it simple.

Bookkeeping onboarding checklist

QuickBooks Online or Xero

If you want monthly bookkeeping, I usually need:

  • Read-only access to your QuickBooks Online or Xero
  • Bank and credit card connections confirmed (or statements if you prefer no connections)
  • A list of accounts and cards used for the business
  • Your top 3 to 5 revenue sources (so income gets categorized correctly)
  • Notes on anything unusual (large one-time purchases, loans, owner contributions)

If you are behind:

  • We'll start with catch-up bookkeeping first
  • Then move into a monthly close rhythm that stays consistent

Starting a business and LLC setup

If you are starting a business, I can help you get organized early so you do not have to rebuild later. Typical setup support includes:

  • Guidance on LLC setup and basic structure choices
  • Simple bookkeeping setup in QuickBooks Online or Xero
  • A clean chart of accounts and categories
  • A plan for staying separated from personal finances
  • Quarterly tax planning basics so you are not surprised

LLC setup support is administrative and accounting-focused. I don't provide legal advice, and I'll recommend an attorney when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you use QuickBooks Online or Xero?

Yes. I work in both. If you already use one, we work in your existing file. If you are not set up yet, I'll recommend the simplest choice for your situation.

What software do you use for tax preparation?

I prepare returns using Intuit ProConnect.

Do you only work with Sarasota clients?

I'm Sarasota-based, but I can work with clients remotely as well.

Do you offer tax prep without bookkeeping?

Yes. Many clients start with tax prep only.

Do you offer bookkeeping without tax prep?

Yes. If you already have a tax preparer, I can still keep your books clean and deliver a year-end package.

Can you help me get caught up if I'm behind?

Yes. Catch-up work is common. We'll get you current, then set a monthly cadence.

What is the best way to stay organized during the year?

Use one business bank account and one business card, keep receipts for major purchases, and do not mix personal spending. If you want the simplest system, I can set it up with you.

Do you provide tax advice all year or only at filing time?

For ongoing clients, I provide year-round support within the scope of the engagement. For tax prep-only clients, most planning happens around filing, unless you want to add support.

If you want this handled cleanly, start with a short call.

Book a Call

or call (941) 404-2341

QuickBooks Online, Xero, ProConnect, and Google Drive-based workflow.