Loyal to Local: Our first INVESTMENT issue
HOME + DESIGN
PROTECTING YOUR HOME: WHEN TO CALL THE PROS
FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS NOW
CRYPTOCURRENCIES AND RETIREMENT?
Hello friends,
April showers bring May flowers, so promised my mom.
If I look back at my Lifestyle Letters from the past ten Aprils, I would bet that I included this quote every time. It’s quintessential Emily. Always looking on the bright side and rhyming or singing her way through a rain shower.
Yes, we are celebrating ten years of Alpharetta City Lifestyle magazine this year! That’s more than 6,000 pages of local stories and businesses that support our community and profiles on your engaging neighbors. Our founder and publisher Jim Newman has joyfully made a significant investment in Alpharetta and as editor, I’m proud to have been along for the ride since day one.
To celebrate, we’re filling this issue with stories about others around you who believe in the power of investing.
Enjoy this issue and let me know what you think.
All my best, SUE G.
COLLINS, EDITOR
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Jim Newman | jnewman@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sue G. Collins | scollins@citylifestyle.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karyn Slovin | karyn.slovin@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Karla Wilkinson | Karla.Wilkinson@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Summer J. Robinson | summerjrobinson2@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aleksandar Kapetanovic
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sean O'Keefe, Kayla Whitmire
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
1: Mark and Cinda Salazar, Archadeck of Alpharetta,
Elevating every moment.
When you step into your kitchen, what do you aspire to do? Master a new cooking technique? Serve food even your pickiest family member will eat with enthusiasm?
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are meticulously crafted to achieve a higher standard of performance, dependability, and style—so you can raise the bar on every meal you make.
Your future kitchen starts with Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove,
business monthly
Couples Coach
City Lifestyle writer/editor Marshall Zweig's groundbreaking new book,Truth Empowered Relationships, harnesses mindfulness in communication to help couples create deeper, more authentic intimacy. He is also a certified master relationship coach, and the creator of resensitization therapy. He lives a Truth Empowered Relationship with his wife, reiki master Heather Masson. Whether he’s coaching or writing, Marshall’s passionate about giving love a voice. Buy Truth Empowered Relationships at Amazon.
Classic Blinds Welcomes Zack Zare
Zack Zare has joined Classic Blinds and Shutters Design Center in Alpharetta. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama's business school and is eager to dive into the family business. Zack's passion for meeting new people makes him a perfect fit for the sales team. His enthusiasm and dedication bring fresh energy to the team. Zack is a car enthusiast, enjoys golfing and cherishing moments with his friends and family. ClassicBlindsAndShutters.com
Scan to read more
School News
The Webb Bridge Middle School Science Olympiad team placed first at the regional competition at Shorter University and placed in 20 out of 23 events with 27 medals. They head to the state competition at UGA this month. Alpharetta Elementary Pre-K students collected over 1100 diapers for local families in need during their second annual Diaper Drive (pictured). Alpharetta High School eleventh grader, Mafer Aguado, won third place finish at the state girls' Wrestling meet.
DutchCrafters Honored
DutchCrafters Wins Best Customer Service, Best Place to Work and Best Furniture / Home Décor in 2024 Best of North Atlanta Awards. The awards, determined by community votes, reflect the trust and support of local residents. Their one-of-a-kind 9,000 sq. ft. store in Alpharetta showcases their most-loved Amish made products. Come touch the woods and fabrics, and learn how easy it is to build the furniture you envision.
Scan to read more
Hempelman Wins Founder Award
Eric Hempelman was awarded the Founder’s Award from The Windward Association of Retired Men. Hempelman writes a monthly article for the neighborhood’s publication The Windward Breeze, serves as co-planner of the annual holiday party with the Women of Windward and is instrumental in arranging the annual Veterans Day celebration. Hempelman served in the U.S. Army in Korea.
Scan to read more
OakRing Honored
Congratulations to Alpharetta’s OakRing Wealth Partners: David Saltzman, Kevin Haynes, Kevin Townsend King, Peter Stephen Knoop II, and Daniel Dean. UBS announced that OakRing, in the firm’s South Wealth Management Market, has been named to the 2025 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list. UBS announced that 32 advisor teams in the firm’s South Wealth Management Market have risen to the top.
Celebrating Excellence: Georgia Luxury Pools
Join us in congratulating Georgia Luxury Pools (GLP) for their outstanding achievement at the prestigious Southeast Pool and Hot Tub Awards. Known for their innovative designs and impeccable craftsmanship, GLP continues to set the standard in luxury pool installations and renovations. This recognition reaffirms their commitment to excellence in every project. Envision your dream pool with the industry leaders. David has earned his CPB and Advanced CBP certification through the National PHTA organization.
ARTICLE BY KAYLA WHITMIRE
Investing in Your Business
Why hiring the right CPA is a game changer
As a business owner, you’re constantly making decisions in the interest of growing your business. You invest in marketing to bring in customers, in technology to keep things running smoothly, and in a great team to make the magic happen. But if you’re not investing in your business’s financial health, you are probably leaving money on the table. Hiring an experienced CPA to handle your bookkeeping, payroll, and tax planning isn’t just another expense—it’s a smart move that saves you time, stress and money while keeping your business financially strong.
WHY SOLID BOOKKEEPING MATTERS
Keeping your books in order is the backbone of a healthy business. When your financial records are messy or out of date, you risk cash flow problems, missed payments, and tax headaches. A good CPA will make sure everything is tracked, organized and ready when you need it, so you can focus on making smart business moves without financial blind spots.
PAYROLL MADE SIMPLE
Payroll isn’t just about cutting checks, it’s about keeping your employees happy and staying compliant with tax laws. Payroll errors can lead to frustrated staff, fines, and a whole lot of wasted time fixing mistakes. It is important that your team gets paid accurately and on time. That means fewer headaches for you and a happier, more productive workforce.
TAX PLANNING THAT SAVES YOU MONEY
Nobody likes dealing with taxes, but smart tax planning can mean the difference between
keeping more of your hard-earned money or paying too much of it. Many business owners end up overpaying simply because they aren’t aware of possible deductions and strategies available. Cambrean CPAs specialize in proactive tax planning, helping you take advantage of every tax break, avoid penalties, and set your business up for long-term savings.
THE BEST INVESTMENT FOR PEACE OF MIND
Let’s be honest… handling finances can be overwhelming, especially when you have a business to run. By outsourcing things like bookkeeping, payroll and tax planning to an experienced CPA firm, like Cambrean CPAs, you’ll get that priceless peace of mind. You can focus on growing your business, knowing that your finances are in good hands.
Find Kayla and her team at Cambrean CPAs 1702 Abbey Ct, Alpharetta 404.994.5102
CambreanCPA.com
Palette:
Your home deserves window treatments as unique as your style. Our expert design consultants offer personalized guidance to craft solutions that complement your vision.
Schedule your consultation today and discover the art of luxurious living.
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
Spring Is Upon Us!
Spring Into Action: Protect Your Home After a Harsh Winter
After a long, cold winter filled with heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, your home’s exterior has taken a beating. Even the most durable roofing systems can suffer from the harsh effects of winter weather, leading to leaks, weakened shingles, and hidden damage that could cause problems down the road. Now that spring is here, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home is in top shape for the warmer months ahead.
www.CR3America.com
At CR3 American Exteriors, we offer free roof inspections to give homeowners peace of mind. Our experienced team will assess any potential damage and provide solutions to keep your home safe and dry as we move into spring and summer. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major problem let us help you take prev entative action now
In addition to expert roofing services, CR3 American Exteriors specializes in gutters, windows, doors, siding, deck replacements, and more Whether you need repairs, upgrades, or a complete exterior remodel, we are your trusted local experts, committed to quality and customer satisfaction. Spring into action today! Schedule your free inspection and make sure your home is ready for th e seasons ahead. Contact CR3 American Exteriors to protect your biggest investment your home Call and schedule with us today!
KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO CALL IN THE PROS
FOR HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO INVEST WISELY IN HOME REPAIRS AND RENOVATIONS, WHAT ARE THE TELLTALE SIGNS THAT IT’S TIME TO CALL A PRO?
Investing in home repairs at the right time can save you money and prevent costly damage. Here’s when to bring in a professional:
• Roofing – Missing shingles, leaks, or granules in your gutters suggest roof aging and potential water damage.
• Gutters – Sagging, rust, or overflowing water indicate clogs, leaks, or improper drainage, leading to foundation damage.
• Siding – Warping, cracks, or fading paint can signal moisture issues, energy loss, or aging materials.
• Windows – Drafts, condensation between panes, or difficulty opening and closing mean it’s time for energy-efficient replacements.
• Decking – Rotting boards, loose railings, or structural instability compromise safety and curb appeal. Spot these issues early, and you’ll protect your home’s value while avoiding bigger, more expensive problems.
SPRING IS HERE. WHAT SEASONAL REPAIRS OR MAINTENANCE SHOULD HOMEOWNERS BE AWARE OF FOR THESE AREAS?
As winter fades, spring brings the perfect opportunity to check for seasonal wear and tear on your home. Here’s what to look for:
• Roofing – Look for missing or curled shingles, damaged flashing, or leaks in the attic after spring rains. Addressing small issues now prevents costly repairs later.
• Gutters – Clear out leaves and debris to prevent clogs, check for sagging or leaks, and ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
• Siding – Inspect for cracks, warping, or mold growth caused by winter moisture. A power wash can refresh its look and remove built-up grime.
• Windows – Check for drafts, damaged seals, or condensation between panes. Clean screens and lubricate window tracks for smooth operation.
• Decking – Inspect for loose boards, rusted fasteners, or signs of rot. Clean and reseal wood decks to protect against moisture and UV damage.
Taking care of these seasonal maintenance tasks now will help protect your home, boost curb appeal, and prevent costly repairs down the road.
WHAT SETS CR3 APART FROM YOUR COMPETITORS?
CR3 American Exteriors stands out from the competition with a commitment to quality craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and integrity. Here’s what makes us different:
• Expertise & Experience – With years of industry knowledge, we specialize in
INVESTING IN HOME REPAIRS AT THE RIGHT TIME CAN
roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and decking, ensuring top-tier results.
• Highest Manufacturer Certifications – We hold the highest manufacturer certifications in the nation, allowing us to offer homeowners not only the best materials but also the absolute best warranties in the industry.
• Premium Materials – We use only high-quality, durable materials to maximize your home’s protection and curb appeal.
• Customer-Centric Approach – Transparent communication, honest assessments, and personalized solutions set us apart. We treat every home like it’s our own.
• Insurance Claims Assistance – We simplify the claims process, working directly with your insurance company to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.
• Local & Trusted – As a locally owned company, we take pride in serving our community with reliable, professional service and a reputation built on trust.
Find Tiffany and Brad Strawbridge CR3America.com
Tiffany and Brad Strawbridge
CONNECTED TO
A CUPPA community
ARTICLE BY ALEKS KAPETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAPETT COLLECTIVE
Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a gathering point. Really it’s the sole reason half of us are still alive. In Alpharetta though, that ritual takes place at Valor Coffee. What started as a mobile espresso bar fueled by a Kickstarter campaign has grown into a local favorite, now with two brick-and-mortar locations in Alpharetta and Dunwoody.
But what makes Valor special isn’t just the coffee—it’s the people behind the counter. More than baristas, they’re conversationalists, community builders, and friendly faces that turn an ordinary coffee run into something memorable. Every visit is a connection, making Valor not just a café but a place where neighbors become regulars and regulars feel right at home.
SERVICE THAT UPLIFTS
You can get good coffee in a lot of places, but genuine connection? That’s a little harder to come by. At Valor, it’s nothing less than the standard. Their mission—“To Uplift People Through Coffee” - isn’t just their slogan; you feel that energy from the moment you walk in. You’re greeted with warmth, easygoing banter, and just enough caffeine-fueled enthusiasm to kickstart your morning (or afternoon, no judgment).
The vibes aren’t just for show though. They extend behind the counter. Employees describe Valor as a place where they grow. Where teamwork actually means something and where “family” isn’t just a corporate buzzword striking fear into new hires. You can tell the people working together actually like each other, and somehow, I think it makes the coffee taste even better.
FLAVORS WORTH SAVORING
What’s the word on their cappuccinos? Silky smooth, with foam so perfectly balanced it’s practically an art form. Their lavender latte—a fan favorite—hits that rare sweet spot between floral and creamy. I’m told it’s the kind of drink that lingers in your mind long after the last sip. Even their matcha latte—my favorite—is a standout, blending earthiness and richness without the bitterness that too often plagues the healthy greens.
The secret? Honestly, not a clue! But a good guess? Their in-house roasting. Valor goes beyond serving coffee; they craft it. Their single-origin beans and signature blends are roasted fresh, meaning each cup is packed with as much care as it is with flavor. And if you want to bring the magic home their beans are available online, making it easier than ever to level up your morning brew.
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
When they needed support to open their Dunwoody café, Valor customers stepped up—literally—supporting the expansion through crowdfunding. That kind of loyalty doesn’t happen by accident, so I wanted to hear about Valor from the owners. Here is what owner Ethan Rivers had to say:
1) WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START (OR TAKE OVER) THIS CAFÉ, AND HOW HAS THAT VISION EVOLVED OVER TIME?
We started Valor with the intention and vision to match the top 1% of coffees served with the top 1% of hospitality. The friction between excellence and guest experience keeps us hungry to grow and innovate little by little every day.
2) YOUR CAFÉ HAS BECOME MORE THAN JUST A PLACE TO GRAB A COFFEE—IT’S A COMMUNITY HUB. WAS THAT ALWAYS THE GOAL, OR DID IT HAPPEN NATURALLY?
When you start something new, it’s very common for it to be slow for a while. We chose to dig into the slowness and truly cherish
every guest that came into our space. That seemed to lay down a treasured foundation of being known when you come to Valor.
3) WHAT’S ONE MEMORABLE INTERACTION OR STORY FROM A CUSTOMER THAT TRULY REFLECTS WHAT YOUR CAFÉ IS ALL ABOUT?
When our whole staff got COVID, we had to close for 10 days. When we reopened, one of our regulars was so relieved to see us again. He told us that Alpharetta had a different atmosphere those 10 days, like a key component of the city was missing. It was an honor to hear how much we mean to our city.
4) IF YOUR CAFÉ COULD LEAVE A LASTING MARK ON THE COMMUNITY, WHAT WOULD YOU WANT IT TO BE REMEMBERED FOR DECADES FROM NOW?
Our mission is to uplift people through coffee. We want to care for our guests in a way that always leaves them better than we found them. If Valor could impart that mission onto the community, I think we could all be better off!
P.S. If you order a tea to stay, they serve you with a cute little tea setup. A vintage ceramic cup, a small glass steeper, any sweeteners (like honey) on the side, and it’s beautifully presented on a wooden serving tray. And for whatever reason, I find that phenomenal.
44 Milton Avenue Valor.Coffee
Uthan Vivek, MD, FRCS (Glasgow), FACS
Mehul Joshi, DO, MS, RPVI
Visharad Patel, DO, MS, RPVI
James Res, DO, RPVI
Carotid
Leg
Diabetic
Arterial
Aortic
Considering Cryptocurrencies?
You’re Retired or Nearing Retirement and Wondering if Bitcoin or Other Cryptocurrencies Are for You?
In an age where headlines buzz with stories of Bitcoin millionaires and digital currency breakthroughs, it’s natural to wonder: Should retirees or those nearing retirement consider cryptocurrencies as part of their financial strategy?
As a seasoned wealth advisor with 26 years of experience and managing partner of BlueChip Wealth Advisors, I’ve seen firsthand how the investment landscape evolves—and how crucial it is to navigate it carefully. Cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, have generated massive attention due to their meteoric rise (and fall) in value. This volatility is precisely why they pose both an opportunity and a risk—especially for retirees whose investment time horizons and risk tolerance differ significantly from younger investors.
For retirees, the primary objective is often capital preservation and generating a steady income stream. Cryptocurrencies, however, are notoriously volatile. In 2021 alone, Bitcoin lost nearly half its value in just a few months, only to recover and then decline again. Such fluctuations could be unsettling for those dependent on their investments for living expenses.
However, dismissing cryptocurrencies altogether might mean missing out on potential growth. The key lies in strategic asset allocation and your own personal
ARTICLE BY MARCUS ASHWORTH, CFP®, MBA
risk tolerance. If you’re considering dipping your toes into digital assets, do so with a conservative approach. Limiting cryptocurrency exposure to a small percentage—typically no more than 3% of your total portfolio—can provide growth potential without jeopardizing your retirement nest egg.
Moreover, it’s essential to view cryptocurrency as a speculative investment rather than a reliable income source. Unlike dividend-paying stocks or interest-bearing bonds, Bitcoin and other digital currencies do not generate passive income. Any gains come solely from price appreciation, which is unpredictable.
At BlueChip Wealth Advisors, we prioritize investment objectives that align with your long-term goals and risk tolerance. Our approach involves a thorough discovery process and continuous monitoring of the opportunities and threats on the financial landscape. If you’re curious about cryptocurrencies or want to explore how they could fit into your retirement plan, it’s vital to proceed with
caution and informed guidance. I always recommend working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), one who can work on a fee basis and truly understands your personal risk tolerance and withdrawal needs. If the firm has updated its software deck, it should include a modern-day digital risk tolerance questionnaire. This will help the advisor and yourself determine if the asset class is appropriate for your situation.
The world of digital currencies is exciting but fraught with risk. For affluent retirees, the question isn’t just about potential rewards—it’s about preserving the lifestyle and legacy you’ve worked so hard to build.
With a more crypto-friendly, SEC commissioner it’s likely we could see more cryptocurrency-tracking ETFs approved and launched
over the next year. For the more tech savvy retirees there is also platforms like Coinbase and even some payment platforms like Paypal who have allowed their customers to buy certain cryptocurrencies.
As with most investments along the efficient frontier, the potential of greater capital appreciation comes with greater additional risk. For those already retired or nearing retirement, I recommend consulting your advisor and keeping this asset class to 3 percent or less of your overall portfolio.
Find Marcus Ashworth,
CFP®, MBA at BCWealthAdvisors.com
Occupancy
April 2025
Limited Availability | Reserve Your Home Today
Our long awaited expansion is here, bringing new restaurant concepts, open amenity spaces, and unique floorplans to Village Park Milton! Couple that with the comforts of modern apartments and the convenience of bespoke services, and you have a luxurious community in a class of its own. Call today for availability on Milton’s most coveted senior residences.
(470) 291-4258 | 12950 Alpharetta Hwy | VillageParkMilton com |
APRIL 2-3, 2025 ATL
APRIL 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 4TH
Jeanne Lanvin: Haute Couture Heritage
SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film | 10:00 AM
The exhibition is curated by Gaël Mamine of Fondation Azzedine Alaïa in collaboration with Lanvin Archives, Parodi Costume Collection, and SCAD FASH creative director Rafael Gomes. All month. For more information visit SCADFash.org
APRIL 12TH
North Fulton Master Gardener Garden Faire
The Grove at Wills Park, 175 Roswell St. | 9:00 AM
A plant sale extraordinaire! Three iconic local non-profit organizations combine their resources for an epic plant sale. North Fulton Master Gardeners’ passalongs and propagated plants, Georgia Native Plant Society's native plants, Alpharetta Community Agricultural Program's vegetable and herb plants. Plus local marketplace vendors and the NFMG pop-up thrift/vintage shoppe!. Free, children’s corner, Garden Talk sessions, food and live music.
APRIL 19TH
HOP-A-LONG EASTER EGG HUNT AT AVALON
400 Avalon Blvd. | 8:30 AM
The hunt is on! Bring your little bunnies down to Avalon for Easter Fun! Join us for an eggcellent way to celebrate the spring season! The Easter Bunny has delivered eggs to Avalon, and we need your help picking them up! No registration is required! Free admission.
CONTINUED
APRIL 24TH
ALPHARETTA FOOD TRUCK ALLEY
37 Old Roswell Street, Alpharetta | 5:00 PM
Kick off the weekend a little early at Alpharetta’s Food Truck Alley. Culinary options include more than 10 food trucks each month. This is a family-friendly event, with limited seating available and will feature live music each month! It is recommended that attendees bring a blanket or chair and leave pets at home for these events.
APRIL 25TH
The Unfinished Symphony
Alpharetta Methodist Church – 69 N. Main St. | 5:30 PM
Although Schubert never finished his 8th Symphony (hence the name Unfinished), he packed more than enough grandeur, emotion, and romance into just two movements! Also featuring Brahms’ first symphony, which is known for its characteristic strength and edge-of-your-seat momentum, and a theme and variations by Rossini that shines the spotlight on our principal clarinetist, the incomparable Barbaraann Bongiovanni!
APRIL 26TH
GrillFest
Union Hill Park – 1590 Little Pine Trail | 1:00 PM
GrillFest is a celebration of all of our favorite foods that can be prepared on the grill, smoker, or flat-top griddle. Guests will enjoy unlimited samples of juicy burgers, smoked BBQ, and an array of grilled meats from wings to steaks. Don’t worry veggie lovers—you are covered, too, as restaurant partners and chefs will also have your favorites fired up on the grill.
Want to be featured?
2 3 4 5
TIPS 5
When using a tax return preparer, taxpayers should look for someone LOCAL. And, according to our friends at the IRS, these other considerations are tops.
1. AVAILABILITY AND CREDS:
Look for a preparer who’s available year-round in case questions come up after filing season is over. Understand the preparer’s credentials and qualifications and review their history for complaints or disciplinary actions.
2. CONSISTENT SERVICE FEES:
Ask about the preparer’s service fees. Taxpayers should avoid tax return preparers who base their fees on a percentage of the refund or who offer to deposit all or part of the refund into their own financial accounts.
3. IRS E-FILE AND DOCS:
Ensure the preparer offers IRS e-file. The IRS issues most refunds in fewer than 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit. Good preparers ask to see records and receipts when filing a return.
4. COMPLETE RETURNS AND REVIEW:
Never sign a blank or incomplete return. Taxpayers are responsible for filing a complete and correct tax return. Review their tax return before signing it and ask questions if something is not clear or appears inaccurate.
5. ACCURATE ACCOUNT INFORMATION:
Make sure any refund will go directly to the taxpayer’s bank account – not into the preparer’s bank account. Review the routing and bank account number on the completed return and make sure it’s accurate.
