Our Clients Have Rights Respect You will always be treated in a courteous and professional manner.
Attention
Your questions and concerns will be addressed promptly. You can expect a return phone call or email within 24 hours, or the next business day.
Familiarity
We enjoy a high retention rate, which means you can build long-lasting relationships with us, ensuring efficient service and a thorough, ongoing understanding of your activities.
Timeliness
We work with you to design a timeline that works for you, and then we stick to it and deliver.
Privacy
We understand that you expect privacy regarding the information and confidences you share with us. We will diligently guard the confidentiality of the information with which we are entrusted.
Expertise
We stay up-to-date on tax laws and professional standards, monitoring industry and regulatory trends, and continuously improve through advanced training, so that we can provide greater value to you.
Objectivity
You have our independent professional judgment and loyalty, uncompromised by conflicts of interest.
The Truth
What is best is often not what is easy. We will tell you when we see barriers in the path to your success.
Your Trusted Advisor You may think of Faw Casson as just a CPA firm. That is part of who we are. ...but we are SO MUCH MORE.
We consistently earn the reputation as our client’s most trusted advisor. We are the face our clients see when the thought is “who would know…”. We make it a point to know your industry -really KNOW your industry - and exactly how you and your business fit into it. We understand that there are obstacles facing every business’s success. We take the time to listen to you and really understand the issues at hand- the thoughts that are making you lose sleep at night and the things that are constantly lurking in the dark corners of your mind. We can help you.
We pick up the freshly unearthed stone that is your newly mined problem. We take the time to really understand these problems and turn the stone over and over in our hands…. …and then we go to work.
Using all of the tools in our arsenal, the stone is consistently examined from every conceivable angle, to envision what lies beneath. With knowledge of the trends and specifications of your industry, our highly trained and educated staff will shave off layers of that stone. The stone is exposed to the lasers of our business knowledge, helping it to take form. We may not have every answer. If that piece of rough stone just won’t budge our fellow AGN members will assist us to remove the last edges of that stone. The stone is polished. All the newly cut facets are examined. We assure that it has been tailor cut to not only your industry, but to YOUR business, specifically. Emerging is a brilliant diamond that will further your business in its success. Your business’s success is a marker with which to measure ours. We strive to proactively bring you solutions that we see on your horizon based on our intimate knowledge of your industry’s trends and how they will affect your business.
You can be assured that we will treat each of your concerns with the respect and time they deserve. We will prove to you time and again that we will be a safe haven for your business in times of turmoil, your arsenal in times of strife, and your confidant and counselor in times of change.
Contact Us Delaware
160 Greentree Drive Suite 203 Dover, DE 19904
Maryland
20245 Bay Vista Road Suite 204 Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
9748 Stephen Decatur Hwy. Suite 103 Ocean City, MD 21842
Phone: 302-674-4305 Fax: 302-674-0910
Phone: 302-226-1919 Fax:
Phone: 410-213-8700 Fax: 410-213-7221
Email:
Email: alh@fawcasson.com
Email: ctvent@fawcasson.com
lsh@fawcasson.com
www.fawcasson.com
Our Community “A membership organization is only as good as its members, and at the CDCC we have been very fortunate to have Faw Casson as an active member. They have provided support and leadership above and beyond what any Chamber could expect. We have had three of the partners of Faw Casson serve as Chairpersons for our Board of Directors and their staff serve on committees and in programs such as the Leadership Central Delaware and Leadership Mastery Programs, and the Annual CDCC Christmas Party, Holiday Auction, and the ASH Golf Tournament. When Faw Casson says they are going to get involved, they mean it – they talk the talk and walk the walk! “ Judy Diogo President, Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce “Simply put, it is a fact that the people of Faw Casson have had a profound impact on the success of AGN International-North America, Inc. throughout the organization’s 30-year history. As one of the charter members, Faw Casson partners took on leadership roles to launch the association – devising its governance structure, bylaws and policies. Two of its partners have served as Chairmen of the Board of Directors, and one of them served twice – one of only two members in the association’s history to have that honor! Other partners have chaired key committees and greatly enhanced the organization’s stature and reputation with regard to audit and accounting, especially in regard to peer reviews and employee benefit plan auditing. Faw Casson partners and staff steadfastly exhibit a “how can we help” attitude, which has been a model for other member firms to improve their collaboration and contributions to each other and the organization. The firm’s partners have always expected excellence from themselves in all their activities and clearly cemented that attitude into AGN-NA’s foundation. With Faw Casson’s leadership and superior participation in association programs, AGN-NA is able to continue to help strengthen accounting professionals’ abilities to provide outstanding client service.” Rita J. Hood Executive Director, AGN International-North America, Inc. “Tammy Ordway has exemplified true leadership while serving Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity as president. She is passionate about the mission, well connected in the community, and her expertise, professionalism and experience have played a key role in furthering our mission in Kent County. Faw Casson has also volunteered on construction sites, participated in Habitat events, and donated their time to provide affordable housing. Faw Casson and their staff truly demonstrate their commitment to the community.” Jocelyn Tice Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity “The YMCA is an organization supported by community involvement. As such, we are very grateful for the support and dedication shown by Faw Casson’s staff. As a member of the Board of Governors for the Central Delaware YMCA, we appreciate Jim Arthur’s dedication helping guide this organization. Faw Casson has been very generous with their time and resources, and we are very happy to have them as part of our YMCA family.” James D. Kelly V.P. of Operations, YMCA of Delaware
“Gals That Give is an organization formed to encourage women to come together once a month for a girls’ night out while supporting local philanthropy. As a founding member, Stephanie Turner has helped get Gals That Give up and running by promoting, organizing, and marketing. Without a doubt, Gals That Give is what it is today in large part thanks to Stephanie. We are lucky to have her on our team, and the support of Faw Casson.” Kim Willson Gals that Give “As one of the visionaries behind the CenDel Foundation, Jennings Hastings was the founding President of the CenDel Foundation and currently serves as the Treasurer. During his Presidency, Jennings was instrumental in growing the CenDel Foundation’s assets and creating a Community Service Building in downtown Dover. The Community Building has not only created a synergy among multiple non-profit organizations, it is also serving our community by providing these non-profit organizations the financial benefit of below-market lease rates. Organizations thrive under strong, visionary leaders like Jennings. He has served as a catalyst for positive change in our community for many years and has been a force to bring many projects to fruition which continue to improve the quality of life in Central Delaware.” Shelly Cecchett Executive Director, Greater Kent Committee
Tax Planning & Preparation Taxes. They cause many a citizen countless nights of sleeplessness. While we can’t make them go away, the tax professionals at Faw Casson will use the full leverage of their experience and knowledge base to place you in the best tax position possible and place your mind at ease. Our tax department is engaged in ongoing research, planning and consulting services for businesses, individuals, estates and trusts. The combination of continuing education, technical skills, internal resources and creativity of our tax professionals help clients to survive and prosper in an increasingly complex environment. Isn’t it time you felt like you had someone on your side? We specialize in many industries and have a wide range of services including: Corporate, partnership, trust and individual tax planning • • • • • • • • • •
Family business tax planning Preparation of tax returns International, State and local tax consulting Retirement planning Estate and gift tax planning Estate and gift tax return preparation Merger and acquisition planning Understanding multi-state tax issues Representation before the IRS or other authorities Planning for real estate transactions (tax free exchanges, buy, sell)
There may be hidden benefits and relief for you and/or your business to get you back on track, maintain yourself, or help to get you to the next level. Faw Casson is committed to help you get there in the best position possible. Have us evaluate your possibilities today. Together we will chart your course for growth, success and compliance management.
ENTREPRENEURIAL Services Running your own business is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. It can also be a stressful one where you are expected to have all the answers and no one to turn to for guidance. Turn to Faw Casson.
From the inception of your idea, to the success of your business, Faw Casson will guide you through the process. Your advisor will help you create a solid business plan that will allow your vision to become a reality. Organized with clear direction, you will maneuver easily through start-up challenges. The first steps of your business are integral to its success – make sure they are well-founded. Already on your way?
Once your business is established, we will assist you in achieving ultimate business results. Our Entrepreneurial Services team will determine where there are roadblocks in your path and provide solutions to help you avoid those barriers. Whether you are one year past your launch, or twenty, our advisors will identify where there is room for growth and create a plan to keep you on the right track. How far will YOUR business go? Faw Casson will show you. Specializing in: • • • • • • • •
Bookkeeping Services QuickBooks Support Strategic Tax Planning Business Consulting Start Up Consulting Growth Strategies Tax Preparation Record Keeping Solutions You have the vision. We have the plan. Tammy J. Ordway, CPA
Alison L. Houck, CPA
302-674-4305
302-226-1919
tjo@fawcasson.com
alh@fawcasson.com
New Job creation Credit Has your business grown? In the past few years, did you invest $200,000 or more in your business in a year? Did you also add at least 5 new employees? Or maybe you invested $1,000,000 in a year on land, buildings and equipment? What if you were eligible to receive substantial Delaware income tax and gross receipts tax credits by answering yes to those questions? Yes. SUBSTANTIAL tax credits.
Delaware has tax credits available for qualifying companies that increase their fixed assets (such as capitalized improvements, equipment, furnishings, vehicles and new leases) and even more credits for those that add new employees.
Faw Casson’s expertise lies in evaluating and navigating the qualification and application process for businesses to maximize these credits. For over 20 years, we have saved companies money with this credit. In the last five years alone, we have had credits approved worth over $8.5 million in tax savings over the ten year life of the credit. The best part?
We’ll evaluate your company and conduct the initial review with absolutely no charge to you. Better yet, we don’t get paid unless you actually receive the benefit – there’s no risk on your part. It doesn’t take much time, and the benefits can be significant. Give us a call. We do the work, you get the reward.
Kimberly A. Fonda, CPA, CFE kaf@fawcasson.com 302-674-4305
Business Valuation & Litigation Support As litigation continues to become increasingly complex and compliance rules and regulation evolve, the importance of having access to specialized expertise has never been greater. At Faw Casson we serve as experts in the field of litigation support and forensic accounting; knowledge that can be essential in winning cases. When you rely on accuracy, experience matters. We have the level of knowledge you require. Our clients count on the extensive experience that Faw Casson has to translate and disclose sophisticated, sometimes ambiguous, financial, accounting tax and investigative issues clearly and accurately. As an adjunct of your litigation team, we provide assistance in complex litigation matter in which an independent opinion of value is required. Services: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Fraud and mismanagement Embezzlement of funds Bankruptcy and insolvency Fraud risk management Shareholder disputes Partnership disputes Marital disputes Contract compliance Tax advocacy and representation Business Valuation Purchases, sale and merger of businesses Estate tax and estate planning Gift tax and planning
For more information about our Business Valuation and Litigation Support, contact:
Jennings P. Hastings, CPA, ABV jph@fawcasson.com 302-674-4305 Accredited in Business Valuation – 1998 Laurie S. Harper, CPA lharper@fawcasson.com 410-213-8700
Certified Fraud Examiner It’s a horrible feeling for any business owner. You have a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. Something is not adding up in your company’s financial records and you can’t put your finger on the source. Worse, the very people that you depend on to keep your business going may be to blame. Who can you trust?
In today’s economic climate you need specialized help to protect your company and your clients from the devastating impact of fraud. Fraud can sneak into your business in so many ways; you need a trusted advisor to guide you through the investigative process. We are that trusted advisor.
Our Certified Fraud Examiners are highly qualified in a unique combination of finance and fraud investigation. They can review your internal controls and procedures to indentify weak spots before fraud has a chance to occur, or help investigate and resolve allegations of fraud. Are you protected?
Let Faw Casson make sure you are. Please contact us to learn more about the following: • • • • • •
Identifying and reducing opportunities for fraud Implementing world-class anti-fraud controls Continuously improving anti-fraud measures based on new risk/technologies Educating your employees to deter fraud and report wrongdoing Resolving allegations or suspicions of fraud Assisting in the recovery of fraud losses
Kimberly A. Fonda, CPA, CFE kaf@fawcasson.com 302-674-4305
Laurie S. Harper, CPA, CFE lharper@fawcasson.com 410-213-8700
Employee Benefit Plans Faw Casson IS your EBP audit solution We have more depth in this specialized compliance area than the local firms, and better pricing than the national firms. How can we say this?
We overstaff our audits. You will be working with CPAs, including partners, who are experienced with EBP audits. This is a dedicated service area for us. Everyone on our team receives EBP-specific training, and we enjoy staff retention exceeding 85%, so you don’t have to retrain your auditor every year. We have experience with all types of plans, including • •
• •
Defined Benefit Plans, including Cash Balance Plans Defined Contribution Plans – including 401(k), Profit Sharing, ESOP and Money Purchase Plans Health and Welfare / Medical Plans Plans implemented under collective bargaining agreements (Union Plans)
How do we do it?
Through experience, we have developed efficient and effective processes that are: •
•
• •
Easier on you and your staff – We provide long lead times for providing information, and about 75% of our work can be done off-site via electronic transmission. We know you have other responsibilities, so we design an audit timeline that works for you. Then we stick to it and deliver. Electronically secure – Audit staff utilize encrypted laptops and flash drives, and electronic files are maintained in a segregated location on our file server that is accessible only to authorized EBP audit personnel. At the conclusion of each audit, electronic files are “scrubbed” to remove participants’ social security numbers. Designed to consider potential internal control weaknesses, which we then bring to the attention of management and assist in resolving. Independent of other Plan service providers – We do not administer plans or sell any other products or services related to benefit plans. James E. Arthur, CPA EBP Audit Specialist jea@fawcasson.com 302-674-4305
We are members of AGN
Have you ever been working on a particularly difficult project? Or wanted to explore a new business venture? Have you ever thought “I wish there was someone in my field I could trust to ask for their insight and expertise�?
We have that.
As members of AGN International we are part of a world-wide association of accounting professionals. We have 60+ years of experience in our own firm, and if we run across something new, we consult with this amazing group of CPA firms to investigate the issues you are facing, draw on the experience of those who have dealt with your problem before and know the exact step to take to create a sound solution. The expertise of a national firm. The personal service of a local firm.
We are WBE Certified Faw Casson became certified as a women-owned business in 2009. Our history goes back to 1944, and while not by design, we have evolved to today having eleven partners, six of whom are female.
We have a number of clients who appreciate our diversity, and some that have specific diversity goals of their own. While our diversity is not what makes us exceptional CPAs, we are business people just like you, and we find that the variety of perspectives contributed allow us to see things differently from some traditional CPA firms. In working with our varied clients, that same outlook is one of the reasons we work so effectively with our clients, developing long-lasting relationships that last for generations.