Tax Resources & FAQ | KY Tax Service & Bookkeeping

Answers to your tax questions and helpful links for your financial success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tax Preparation Services

Do I need to come in person?

Yes, we value the personal connection and accuracy that comes with meeting face-to-face. While we can handle some follow-up questions via phone, we conduct our primary tax interviews and document hand-offs in person at our San Martin office. This helps us identify applicable deductions and credits based on your individual tax situation.

How long does it take to prepare my taxes?

We value both speed and accuracy. Once we have received all your necessary documents, our standard turnaround time is typically 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the volume of returns during the peak of tax season.

What happens if I need an extension?

Life happens! If you are unable to gather your documents by the filing deadline, we can file an extension for you. For our established clients, we file extensions at no additional charge.

Note: An extension gives you more time to file, but not more time to pay any taxes owed.

What if I receive a letter or notice from the IRS?

Receiving an IRS notice can be confusing, but it does not always mean something is seriously wrong. KY Tax Service & Bookkeeping can help you review the notice, understand what the IRS is requesting, gather the necessary tax records, and determine the appropriate next steps.

If you have a simple question about an IRS letter, we're happy to help you understand what it means. If your situation requires formal representation before the IRS, we can help you understand when it may be appropriate to work with an Enrolled Agent, CPA, or tax attorney.

How much does tax preparation cost?

We believe in fair, transparent pricing. Our rates are competitive for the South Bay area and depend on the complexity of your return (e.g., W-2 only vs. Business/Rental income). Call us for a free estimate.

When is payment due?

Payment is due upon completion of the return, before we e-file. We accept Cash, Check, and Credit Cards for your convenience.

Can you help if I haven't filed taxes in years?

Yes. We specialize in helping clients get caught up with 'back taxes.' We can help you gather past wage and income transcripts and prepare and file prior-year returns to help bring your federal and California filing requirements up to date.

Do you do out-of-state returns? Yes. While we are based in San Martin, CA, our software supports all 50 states. If you moved to California recently or have income from another state, we can handle your multi-state filing.

Do you handle rental property taxes?

Absolutely! Whether you have a long-term rental in Gilroy or an Airbnb, we help identify applicable depreciation and expense deductions based on your rental property and tax situation.

Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

During tax season (February–April), we operate primarily by appointment to ensure every client gets our undivided attention. Please call us at (408) 763-7856 to schedule.

What software do you use?

We use industry-leading professional software to ensure accuracy. For tax preparation, we utilize Lacerte Tax Software, and for bookkeeping, we specialize in QuickBooks Desktop.

Bookkeeping & Business

My books are a mess / I haven't done bookkeeping in months. Can you help?

Yes! We specialize in "catch-up" and "clean-up" bookkeeping. Whether you are months or even years behind, we can sort through your receipts and bank statements to get your financial records current, accurate, and ready for tax time.

Do you work with Small Businesses?

Absolutely. We support sole proprietors, LLCs, and small corporations in San Martin, Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and beyond. We handle the books so you can focus on running your business.

Do you handle payroll?

We provide payroll bookkeeping support to ensure your employee wages and taxes are recorded correctly in your ledgers. If you need help setting up payroll or integrating it with your QuickBooks, we can guide you through the process.

I just started a business. Do you help with setup?

Congratulations! Yes, we can help you start on the right foot. We offer QuickBooks setup and training to ensure your chart of accounts is structured correctly for your specific industry.

How often will I get reports on my business?

We typically provide monthly financial reports, including your Profit & Loss (Income Statement) and Balance Sheet. These reports help you track where your money is going and allow you to make smarter business decisions year-round.

What documents should I bring to my appointment?

To make your appointment as efficient as possible, please bring:

Last year's tax return (if you are a new client).
Social Security numbers for all family members.
W-2s, 1099s (NEC, MISC, INT, DIV), and other income statements.
Receipts for deductible expenses (medical, business, charity).
Form 1095-A (if you have marketplace health insurance).

Helpful Links & Resources

We believe in empowering our clients with the right tools. Here are direct links to official government resources to help you track your refund or find forms.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Where’s My Refund? – Check the status of your federal tax refund.
Get Your Tax Record – Request a transcript of your past tax returns.
IRS Withholding Estimator – Check whether enough federal income tax is being withheld from your paycheck.
Make a Payment – Pay your federal taxes online directly.

California Franchise Tax Board (FTB)

Check Your State Refund Status – See when your California refund will arrive.
Web Pay for Personal Income Tax – Pay your California state taxes online.

Business & Labor

California Secretary of State – Business entity search and filing information.
EDD (Employment Development Department) – Information on payroll taxes and unemployment insurance.