Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's the biggest mistake small business owners make with bookkeeping?

    Waiting until year-end to organize financial records creates stress and limits tax planning opportunities. Many owners lose track of deductible expenses or miss cash flow issues that could have been addressed earlier. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we encourage setting up consistent monthly bookkeeping to avoid surprises and make smarter decisions throughout the year.
  • How does monthly bookkeeping help small businesses in Forest Grove?

    Monthly bookkeeping tracks income, expenses, vendor payments, and invoices in real time so owners always know where their money is going. It supports healthier financial decisions and simplifies year-end tax filing by providing organized summaries. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we use digital tools and reliable methods tailored to contractors, retail shops, and service providers across Forest Grove.
  • When should I file my corporate tax return?

    Corporate tax returns are generally due by the 15th day of the third month after your fiscal year ends, with extensions available if needed. Filing early reduces last-minute stress and allows time to plan for next year's obligations. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we help small corporations in Forest Grove stay compliant and avoid penalties through organized year-end reconciliations.
  • What tax deductions do Forest Grove contractors often miss?

    Contractors frequently overlook vehicle mileage, tool purchases, home office expenses, and equipment depreciation. Many also miss deductions for supplies, licensing fees, and subcontractor payments. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we understand local trades and help ensure nothing is left on the table during corporate or personal tax filing.
  • Can I catch up on several years of unfiled tax returns?

    Yes, you can file past-due returns using organized document retrieval and reconstruction methods, even if paperwork was lost or misplaced. Filing late returns reduces penalties and restores IRS compliance before notices escalate. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we help Forest Grove clients discreetly address non-filed returns and get back on track.
  • What happens if I get an IRS audit notice?

    An IRS audit notice means the agency wants to review specific items on your return, such as income or deductions. Prompt action with organized documentation can resolve issues quickly and protect your rights. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we represent Forest Grove individuals and small businesses during audits, communicating directly with the IRS to reduce stress.
  • How does payroll service help small business owners?

    Payroll service ensures accurate employee paychecks, correct tax withholdings, and timely federal and state filings, preventing costly penalties. Outsourcing payroll frees up time and reduces mistakes common with manual processing. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we support Forest Grove restaurants, shops, contractors, and small offices with reliable payroll software and clear reporting.
  • What's the difference between personal and corporate tax filing?

    Personal tax filing reports individual or household income using forms like W-2s and 1099s, while corporate tax filing addresses business income, expenses, and entity-specific deductions. Corporations face stricter compliance rules and often require quarterly estimates. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we guide Forest Grove clients through both processes with plain-language explanations.
  • Why should I file my taxes early in Forest Grove?

    Early filing reduces stress, speeds up refunds, and allows time to address any errors or missing documents before deadlines. It also helps you plan financially for the year ahead. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we encourage working families and small businesses in Forest Grove to start the process as soon as W-2s and 1099s arrive.
  • How do partnership K-1 forms work for small businesses?

    K-1 forms report each partner's share of business income, losses, and distributions for their personal tax returns. Accurate, timely K-1s prevent filing delays and IRS questions. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we prepare partnership returns for Forest Grove family operations, contractor teams, and service groups with careful attention to detail.
  • What should I bring for personal tax filing?

    Bring W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductible expenses, childcare records, education expenses, and any IRS notices you received. Having documents organized speeds up filing and maximizes your refund. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we help Forest Grove working families gather everything needed and explain deductions in clear terms.
  • How can bookkeeping reduce my tax prep workload?

    Organized bookkeeping provides year-end summaries of income, expenses, and cash flow, making tax filing faster and more accurate. It eliminates the need to hunt for receipts or reconstruct records at the last minute. At TLC Bookkeeping And Tax Prep Inc., we offer monthly or quarterly support so Forest Grove business owners enter tax season stress-free.