Strategic Accounting & Tax FAQs
Trusted Answers from Your Financial Partners
Whether you’re leading a growing global enterprise, managing personal wealth, or running a business in California’s dynamic regulatory environment, we’re here to provide clarity, compliance, and confidence. Below are some of the most common questions we receive—and how we deliver solutions you can count on.
FAQs
What services do you offer beyond tax preparation and auditing?
Our full-service offerings include tax planning, client accounting services, business consulting, M&A advisory, financial statement audits, internal controls evaluation, risk management, forensic accounting, estate planning, and outsourced CFO services.
What experience do you have in our specific industry?
We serve a wide range of industries, including agriculture, real estate, healthcare, manufacturing, nonprofit, technology, and professional services. Each sector has a dedicated team that understands the industry’s regulations, challenges, and benchmarks.
How do you price your services? Is there flexibility in your billing structure?
We provide pricing based on the complexity and scope of your engagement. Options include hourly rates, fixed-fee arrangements, or retainer-based models. We are transparent in our proposals and work to accommodate your budgeting needs.
What differentiates your firm from other large accounting firms?
We combine the strength and resources of a national firm with the attentiveness of a local advisor. Clients appreciate our hands-on service model, depth of industry experience, and our ability to provide strategic insight, not just compliance.
What is your process for onboarding new clients?
Our onboarding begins with a discovery meeting, a review of prior filings and records, and a final formal or informal proposal, depending on the desire. You’ll be introduced to your dedicated engagement team and provided with a clear timeline and communication path.
Can you assist with mergers, acquisitions, or restructuring? (Corporate Clients)
Yes. We provide transaction advisory, financial due diligence, tax structuring, and post-deal integration support. Our team helps identify risks and uncover value or tax ramifications throughout the deal lifecycle.
Do you offer estate, trust, and generational wealth planning? (High-Net-Worth Individuals)
We do. Our services include trust structuring, tax-optimized wealth transfers, charitable giving strategies, and coordination with legal advisors. We aim to protect your legacy while minimizing estate and gift tax exposure.
How do you help clients navigate California’s complex tax and regulatory environment? (California-Based Businesses)
We offer deep expertise in California’s unique tax codes, environmental regulations, labor laws, and compliance filings. From state income and franchise taxes to business property taxes, we provide peace of mind and proactive guidance.
Do you offer outsourced CFO or controller services?
Absolutely. For companies that need financial leadership without hiring in-house, we offer outsourced CFO and controller services. These include cash flow forecasting, budgeting, financial reporting, board preparation, and strategic planning.
Does Atherton help with Quickbooks?
We provide support for QuickBooks, including guidance on conversions from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online, as well as on-demand consulting tailored to your accounting needs. For software-specific issues or technical troubleshooting, we recommend reaching out directly to Intuit.
Tax FAQs
How do I access my return in SafeSend without a client portal?
To access your return in SafeSend Returns, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Receive the email: Look for an email from noreply@safesendreturns.com, which will contain a safe link to your tax return.
- Click the link: Click the link in the email to access your return.
- Identity verification: You’ll be prompted to enter the last four digits of your Social Security number to review your return. SafeSend may also email or text you an access code for further verification.
- Enter the access code: Retrieve the access code from your email or text message and enter it in the required field. Note: The code is typically only valid for 20 minutes, so make sure to enter it promptly.
- Review and complete: Once you’ve successfully verified your identity, you’ll have access to your tax return where you can review, download, or print it.
- E-sign (if applicable): If you’re required to electronically sign your e-file authorization forms, you’ll be guided through the process and asked to answer a few simple questions to verify your identity.
Important Notes:
- Check spam/junk folders: If you don’t receive the initial email or the access code, be sure to check your spam or junk folders.
- Request a new code: If the access code expires before you use it, you can request another one.
- For spouses filing jointly: If you file jointly with your spouse, both of you will receive separate emails with links to view and sign the return.
- Downloading/Printing: You can download and print your return from a computer or tablet, but printing may not be available on a smartphone.
If you have any questions or experience difficulties accessing your return, contact us for assistance.
How do I request a copy of my tax return?
If you have a client portal, 2025 tax returns and beyond are available there. If you do not have a portal or need 2024 tax returns and older see question, How do I access my return in SafeSend without a client portal?
How long should I keep tax documents?
It is generally recommended to keep supporting documents for at least four – seven years, such as W-2’s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions, as these can provide necessary evidence if your records are questioned. See our Record Retention list.
I have received a notice from the IRS, what should I do?
If you’ve received a notice from the IRS, don’t panic—reach out to us right away.
We will review a copy of the notice, provide an explanation of its meaning, and help you determine the appropriate response. Whether it’s a simple clarification or requires formal representation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. See list of top ten most commonly sent notices
When will Atherton be sending out this year’s tax organizer/worksheet?
Tax organizers for individuals are typically distributed at the beginning of the year to assist clients in gathering necessary documents for tax preparation. While specific dates can vary, organizers are often sent out in January to ensure timely filing.
If you’re an existing client, please click here to request your Individual 2025 tax organizer.
This tax organizer/worksheet is long. Is it necessary?
We understand it can feel lengthy, but yes—it’s an important part of the process.
The organizer helps ensure we have complete and accurate information to prepare your return correctly, identify potential deductions, and avoid delays. The more thorough the information, the better we can serve you.
What is a tax Power of Attorney (POA)? Is it required?
A tax Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal form that authorizes us to communicate directly with the IRS or state tax agencies on your behalf.
This allows us to access your tax records, respond to notices, and represent you in matters related to your tax filings. While it’s not always required, we may request it if we need to resolve a tax issue or speak to the IRS directly on your behalf.
Payment + Refund Questions
When are my business taxes due?
When is my estimated tax payment due?
How do I make online tax payments/estimated tax payments for individuals?
Individual tax payments and estimated payments can be made directly through the IRS website using the IRS Direct Pay tool.
This secure option allows you to pay from a checking or savings account without needing to register. Simply visit www.irs.gov/payments and follow the prompts. For credit or debit card payments, third-party processors are also available on the site. If you need to make state payments, we’re happy to direct you to the appropriate portal for your state.
How do I make online tax payments/estimated tax payments for businesses?
Business tax payments and estimated payments can be made online through the IRS Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS).
This secure system allows you to schedule payments, view payment history, and receive confirmations. To use EFTPS, you’ll need to enroll at www.eftps.gov if you haven’t already. For state payments, each state has its own online portal—feel free to contact us, and we’ll help guide you to the right one.
Payments | Internal Revenue Service
EFTPS| The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System | Internal Revenue Service
How do I make a state tax payment/estimated tax payment (either individual or business)?
Making state tax or estimated payments varies by state and whether you’re an individual or a business.
Most states offer secure online portals where you can make payments directly from your bank account or by credit/debit card.
CA Estimated tax payments | FTB.ca.gov
Pay | FTB.ca.gov
To ensure accuracy and avoid penalties, it’s important to use the correct forms and payment methods specified by your state’s tax authority. If you’re unsure about the process or need assistance, we’re here to help guide you through the appropriate steps for your specific situation.
Am I required to send my tax payment check via certified mail?
You’re not required to send your tax payment by certified mail, but it’s highly recommended.
Certified mail provides proof of mailing and delivery, which can be valuable if there’s ever a question about when the payment was sent. It adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind—especially for important tax deadlines.
Client Portal Powered by SafeSend
Need Assistance?
If you have any trouble setting up your account or using the portal, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can give us a call and we’ll be glad to walk you through the process.
Does the Client Portal use a username/password or a multi-factor authentication method?
The Client Portal always requires a unique access code to log in. A client-specific PIN is required when logging in from a new browser or device.
Can I reset my PIN?
Yes. You can reset your PIN from inside the Client Portal in the Security Settings section.
Can I reset the email ID used to log in?
Yes. You can reset your primary email from inside the Client Portal in the Security Settings section.
Is it safe to enter my Social Security Number (SSN)?
Yes. Look for https:// at the beginning of the site URL and a locked padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar to confirm you are on a secure site.
Can a taxpayer and spouse use the same email address?
Yes. Both can use the same email address. Each will receive their own secure access link.
My spouse and I are filing jointly. How can we both sign the e-file authorization form(s)?
The return will be sent to one spouse first. After signing, the second spouse will automatically receive the return for their signature.
Can a taxpayer and spouse have their own separate Client Portal accounts?
Yes, as long as the taxpayer and spouse have different email addresses, you can each create your own Client Portal account.
After signing, will I receive confirmation that the return was successfully submitted?
Yes. You will receive an email confirming your return was submitted successfully.
Will I receive a notification when my return is ready to sign?
Yes. Email notifications will come from noreply@safesendreturns.com.
Can I set up reminders for my quarterly estimated payments?
Yes. You can do this from the Pay screen within the portal.
If a Partner/Shareholder declines to e-sign the K-1, how will I know?
The K-1 Distribution Page will show “Declined Consent.” If declined in error, you can click Resend to allow them to accept and download.
I’d rather print and sign my e-file authorization form(s). Can I do that?
Yes. Select the Manually Sign option within the Sign section of your return.
Will I have the option to download and print my return to retain for my records?
Yes. You can download and print during the Review step and again after signing is completed.
Can I see my previous tax returns?
Only returns that have been processed through the Client Portal are available to be seen.
What browsers are currently supported?
Google Chrome (preferred), Firefox, Edge, and Safari are all compatible with SafeSend.
Can the Client Portal be accessed from a tablet or mobile device?
The Client Portal is compatible with tablets but is not compatible with mobile devices. |