May Accounting & Tax Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers. Professional guidance. No surprises.
Working With Us
How do I get started?
Getting started is structured and straightforward:
- Contact us to request service or ask a question.
- Complete the client intake form.
- Upload documents securely.
- We review your file and confirm scope before proceeding.
Every engagement begins with clarity and defined expectations.
Do you accept new clients year-round?
Yes. We accept clients throughout the year for tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and compliance services.
Availability during peak tax season may be limited.
What happens if my documents are incomplete?
If documents are missing or unclear, we will contact you with a structured list of what’s needed. Work may pause until the required information is received.
For best results, submit documents together (instead of sending items one at a time over multiple days).
How do I pay my invoice?
Payment details are included on your invoice. If you need the information resent, email us and we will provide it.
Please include your invoice number in the message or e-transfer memo for proper tracking.
Tax Preparation
What documents are required for my tax return?
Required documentation varies depending on your situation (employment, self-employment, rental income, investments, etc.).
A structured checklist is provided to support accuracy and completeness.
Do you file electronically?
Yes. Eligible returns are filed electronically through the CRA EFILE system once authorization is completed.
How long does filing take?
Timelines depend on document completeness and time of year.
We prioritize accuracy and compliance over rushed submissions.
Once your file is complete, an estimated timeline will be confirmed.
When will I receive my refund or Notice of Assessment?
Refund and Notice of Assessment timelines vary based on CRA processing and time of year. After filing, CRA will process the return and issue your Notice of Assessment through CRA My Account and/or mail.
If CRA requests additional information, timelines may be extended. We can guide you on next steps if that occurs.
What CRA deadlines should I be aware of?
- Personal tax returns: April 30
- Self-employed returns: June 15 (balance due April 30)
- T4 / T4A slips: February 28
- HST returns: Varies based on filing frequency
If you’re unsure which deadlines apply to you, contact us.
Do you help with late filing or prior-year returns?
Yes. Late filing and prior-year returns may be completed depending on the years involved and availability.
We will confirm scope, required documents, and timelines before starting.
What if I have multiple years to file?
Multiple unfiled years can be completed in a structured and prioritized manner. We typically begin with the oldest outstanding year and work forward.
- Each year is reviewed separately for accuracy
- Required documents are confirmed for each tax year
- Timelines and scope are discussed before work begins
If CRA has issued notices or requests, forward them before we begin so we can align filing strategy appropriately.
What if I owe CRA money?
If your return results in a balance owing, payment is made directly to CRA. We can provide guidance on payment options and due dates.
- Payment plans are arranged directly with CRA
- Interest may apply until the balance is paid
- Filing on time is still important — even if payment cannot be made immediately
Do you guarantee refund amounts?
No. Refund amounts depend on the information provided and current CRA legislation. Returns are prepared based on accurate reporting and applicable deductions.
We prioritize compliance and accuracy over maximizing outcomes through unsupported claims.
What if I have unreported income or past errors?
If income was not reported in prior years or significant errors occurred, it is important to address the matter carefully and properly.
In some cases, CRA’s Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) may apply. We will review the situation and advise on the appropriate approach.
Transparency and timely correction typically lead to better outcomes than ignoring the issue.
Business & Compliance
Do you handle business income, bookkeeping, payroll, and HST?
Yes. Services may include:
- Sole proprietor reporting (T2125)
- Rental income reporting
- QuickBooks Online bookkeeping and reconciliations
- Payroll & source deductions
- HST return preparation
Scope is confirmed in advance to ensure transparency.
Do you work with QuickBooks Online (QBO)?
Yes. We support and manage QuickBooks Online for reconciliation, reporting, payroll, and compliance accuracy.
Do you recommend Dext Prepare?
For bookkeeping clients, Dext Prepare streamlines receipt capture and document submission.
We provide setup guidance and workflow support.
What should I submit for bookkeeping each month?
Most bookkeeping clients should provide:
- Bank and credit card statements (all accounts used)
- Receipts and invoices (Dext preferred)
- Any cash payments or deposits details
- Notes for unusual transactions
What happens if I do not reconcile monthly?
Delayed reconciliations often result in larger cleanup work at year-end. This may include uncategorized transactions, duplicates, and missing documentation.
Regular monthly maintenance keeps reporting accurate and reduces unexpected costs later.
Do you provide tax planning services?
Standard engagements focus on compliance and accurate filing. Tax planning or advisory services may be discussed separately depending on your situation.
If you are seeking proactive planning strategies, mention this when booking your consultation.
Pricing & Scope
How is pricing determined?
Pricing reflects complexity, volume, and scope of service.
All fees are discussed before work begins.
What is included in your services?
Each engagement includes professional review, accuracy verification, and filing where applicable.
Scope is clearly defined in advance to ensure transparency.
What is “cleanup” and when does it apply?
Cleanup generally applies when records are incomplete, uncategorized, unreconciled, or require corrections before accurate reporting or filing can be completed.
- Large volumes of uncategorized transactions
- Missing statements or incomplete documentation
- Unreconciled accounts or duplicate entries
- Significant corrections needed to support filing
Cleanup work is quoted based on complexity and volume before beginning.
What is not included in standard pricing?
Standard pricing covers the agreed scope of service. The following may require separate quoting:
- Major bookkeeping reconstruction or cleanup
- Large manual data entry projects
- Extensive CRA review or audit support
- Complex multi-entity restructuring
All additional work is discussed before proceeding.
Do you assist with CRA reviews or audits?
Yes. If CRA requests additional documentation or initiates a review, we can assist in preparing responses and organizing required information.
Review or audit support may be quoted separately depending on scope and complexity.
CRA Authorization & Access
How do I authorize you as my CRA representative?
You can authorize representation securely through your CRA My Account portal.
Use the guides below for step-by-step instructions:
If preferred, we can also submit an authorization request for electronic approval.
What if CRA contacts me after filing?
If CRA requests information or sends a review letter, forward it to us promptly. We will advise what it means and what documentation is needed.
Timely responses help avoid delays and reduce stress.
How are my documents handled?
Client information is handled confidentially and stored using secure digital systems.
Privacy and data protection are a priority.
Still Have Questions?
Can I contact you directly?
Yes. We welcome inquiries regarding your specific situation.