Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Can I file my taxes early?
Yes! Tax season typically begins in January, and filing early can help you avoid delays. As soon as you have all the necessary documents, we’re ready to assist.
Can you file my state taxes as well as my federal taxes?
Absolutely! We handle both state and federal tax returns. If you need to file in multiple states, we can take care of that too.
How long does it take to file my taxes?
The time varies depending on the complexity of your return. For straightforward filings, it may take less than an 45 min.. More complex returns with multiple forms may take longer, but our preparers work efficiently to minimize your wait time.
Can you help me if I’ve never filed taxes before?
Absolutely! Filing taxes for the first time can seem overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free for you. Our team will guide you step-by-step, ensuring you understand what’s required and why.
We’ll start by discussing your situation to determine which forms and documents you’ll need. If you’re missing something, we’ll help you track it down. Once we have everything, we’ll prepare your tax return accurately and make sure you’re taking advantage of all possible tax benefits. We’ll also explain the process, so you’re more confident about filing in the future.
If you’re eligible for a refund, we’ll discuss your disbursement options, and if you owe taxes, we’ll help you explore payment options to avoid penalties. Additionally, we’ll provide advice on how to stay organized for future tax seasons, such as keeping records and tracking potential deductions throughout the year.
Whether you’re a student, a new worker, or just filing taxes for the first time due to other circumstances, we’re ready to help you every step of the way!
What if I haven’t filed my taxes for several years?
If you owe taxes for any prior year, it's crucial to file those returns as soon as possible to minimize penalties and interest, which can accrue over time. Even if you can't pay the full amount immediately, filing your return promptly shows good faith and helps you avoid the steep failure-to-file penalty.
Our team will guide you through gathering the necessary documents, identifying deductions and credits you may have missed, and preparing accurate returns for each year you need to file. We’ll also help you navigate IRS correspondence and payment options, ensuring you’re back on track and in good standing with your taxes.
How do I know if I need to file a tax return this year?
Whether you need to file depends on factors such as your income, filing status, age, and other circumstances. We can help determine your filing requirements during a quick no-cost consultation over the phone, or in person.
Do I need to file taxes if I am a student?
Possibly! If you earned income or qualify for education-related tax credits or deductions, filing could be beneficial. We can help you determine what’s best for your situation.
Payments & Fees
How much do you charge for tax preparation?
Our fees depend on the complexity of your return. We offer transparent pricing and will always provide a quote before completing your return.
Do I have to pay your preparation fee upfront?
Not necessarily! We offer three convenient payment options to suit your needs:
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Pay Upfront: You can pay your filing fees upfront using cash, card, or check. This is the most cost-effective option since it avoids any third-party fees. If you can afford to pay upfront, we highly recommend this option to save on extra costs.
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Refund Transfer: With this option, your preparation fees are deducted directly from your tax refund. Our partner bank processes the transaction and charges a small service fee for this convenience. This is a great choice if you’d rather not pay out of pocket immediately.
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Refund Advance Loan (RAL): You can opt for a refund advance loan and combine it with a refund transfer to cover your filing fees. This option allows you to access funds early while still paying your fees directly from your tax refund.
What happens if I can’t afford to pay upfront for tax preparation?
If paying upfront isn’t an option, you can use our Refund Transfer service to have your fees deducted directly from your refund or apply for a Refund Advance Loan, which offers access to funds before your refund arrives.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, debit or credit cards, and checks. For added convenience, you can also use our Refund Transfer option, where your filing fees are deducted directly from your tax refund.
Are there additional fees for the Refund Transfer option?
Yes, the Refund Transfer option involves a small service fee charged by our partner bank for processing the transaction. This fee is deducted directly from your refund, along with the preparation fees.
Is there an additional cost for a Refund Advance Loan?
Yes, Refund Advance Loans may have associated fees or interest, depending on the amount and terms. However, we also offer no-interest Refund Advance Loans in smaller amounts ($250, $500, or $1,000).
Can I pay my filing fees with multiple payment methods?
Yes, we can accommodate split payments. For example, you may pay part of your fees upfront and cover the remaining balance with a Refund Transfer.
Are there any hidden fees?
No, we believe in transparency. All fees, including third-party service fees for options like Refund Transfers or Refund Advance Loans, are disclosed upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.
What is the cheapest way to pay for my tax preparation?
The most cost-effective way is to pay your filing fees upfront using cash, card, or check. This avoids third-party fees associated with Refund Transfers or Refund Advance Loans.
Can I change my payment option after I’ve submitted my taxes?
Once you’ve finalized your payment option, it typically cannot be changed once your return has been transmitted to the IRS and State taxing agencies. However, if there are extenuating circumstances, please contact our office immediately, and we’ll do our best to assist.
Do you offer discounts or promotions?
Yes, we occasionally run special promotions, and our Customer Loyalty Program offers additional perks and discounts. Be sure to ask about current deals when you visit our office!
Refunds & Taxes Owed
How long does it take to receive my refund?
Do I have to pay your preparation fee upfront?
Not necessarily! We offer three convenient payment options to suit your needs:
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Pay Upfront: You can pay your filing fees upfront using cash, card, or check. This is the most cost-effective option since it avoids any third-party fees. If you can afford to pay upfront, we highly recommend this option to save on extra costs.
-
Refund Transfer: With this option, your preparation fees are deducted directly from your tax refund. Our partner bank processes the transaction and charges a small service fee for this convenience. This is a great choice if you’d rather not pay out of pocket immediately.
-
Refund Advance Loan (RAL): You can opt for a refund advance loan and combine it with a refund transfer to cover your filing fees. This option allows you to access funds early while still paying your fees directly from your tax refund.
What happens if I can’t afford to pay upfront for tax preparation?
If paying upfront isn’t an option, you can use our Refund Transfer service to have your fees deducted directly from your refund or apply for a Refund Advance Loan, which offers access to funds before your refund arrives.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept a variety of payment methods, including cash, debit or credit cards, and checks. For added convenience, you can also use our Refund Transfer option, where your filing fees are deducted directly from your tax refund.
Refund Advance Loans (RALs)
What is a Refund Advance Loan?
Refund Advance loans are optional, short-term loans offered in both no-interest and interest-bearing formats, designed to be repaid using your federal tax refund. These loans are issued by Pathward®, N.A. and are not your actual tax refund.
- No-Interest Refund Advances: If approved, you may qualify for a loan in one of the following fixed amounts: $250, $500, or $1,000.
- Interest-Bearing Refund Advances: If approved, you may receive a loan equal to 25%, 50%, or 75% of your expected federal refund.
Applications for Refund Advance loans are open from January 3, 2025, to February 28, 2025. The approval process and terms of the loan are determined solely by Pathward®, N.A., based on your application and standard underwriting criteria.
Please note: A Refund Advance is a loan and is separate from your tax refund. If approved, the loan amount will be deducted from your federal refund when it is issued.
When is the Refund Advance Loan available?
The Refund Advance loan is available beginning Jan. 3, 2025 through Feb. 28, 2025.
What types of loans are available?
We offer two types of refund advance loans to meet your needs:
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No-Interest Loans
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 0%
- Available loan amounts: $250, $500, or $1,000
- No interest or fees are charged on these loans.
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Interest-Bearing Loans
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): 36%
- Loan amounts are based on 25%, 50%, or 75% of your expected refund.
- Minimum loan amount: $1,250
- Maximum loan amount: $7,000
Both options are designed to provide flexibility and help you access funds quickly based on your eligibility and refund amount.
How are applications approved?
To qualify for a refund advance, you must first meet the following eligibility requirements:
- E-file a tax return through our office.
- Expect a sufficient refund from the IRS to cover the advance amount.
- Provide valid identification as part of the process.
Once you meet these requirements, you can submit an application to Pathward®, N.A., the lender offering the refund advance. The bank will review your application using its standard underwriting criteria and determine whether to approve or deny your request.
Approval decisions are made solely by Pathward®, N.A., and are based on the information provided during your application.
How soon will I receive my loan funds?
If your application is approved, funds are typically made available the same day you apply for the Refund Advance loan in most cases. However, processing times may vary depending on the time of application and other factors.
Rest assured, we aim to deliver your funds as quickly as possible!
Does getting a loan affect how quickly I will receive my refund from the IRS and States?
Your refund timing will not be affected. Obtaining a loan has no effect on when you will receive your tax refund(s) from the IRS and state taxing authorities.
How is my loan repaid?
Your loan will be automatically repaid using your federal refund proceeds (and state refund, if applicable and allowable under state law). In most cases, you don’t need to make manual payments.
Additionally, there’s no charge or fee if you choose to prepay your loan early.
What are the disbursement options for my Refund Advance loan?
You can choose from the following disbursement options for your Refund Advance loan:
- Physical Check – Pick up your check directly from our office.
- Direct Deposit – Have the funds deposited directly into your bank account.
- Visa® FasterMoney Prepaid Card – Receive your funds loaded onto a prepaid card for convenient access.
All disbursement options are available and include a $39.95 transfer fee, which will be deducted from your applicable refund. Choose the option that works best for you!
If my filing status is "Married Filing Jointly (MFJ), is my spouse personally liable for the loan?
Your spouse will not be personally liable for the loan. However, any tax refund from your jointly filed tax return is used to repay the Loan.
How can I check the status of my loan application?
You can easily check the status of your loan application by visiting myepstax.com. Once there, simply enter your Social Security Number and ZIP code to access your application status.
This secure and convenient portal provides real-time updates on your loan application, so you can stay informed every step of the way!
How can I get in touch with the Bank's Customer Support Team?
To get in touch with the bank offering you your refund advance loan, you may contact their Customer Service at 888-782-0860.