FAQ – Sapphire Business Solutions

Tax Questions

Do you only prepare taxes for Alabama residents?

We are based in Alabama and specialize in Alabama taxpayers, but we can often help clients who live, work, or file in multiple states. If your situation is more complex, we’ll let you know up front whether we’re a good fit.

What types of tax returns do you prepare?

We prepare returns for individuals (W-2, 1099, families with dependents), self-employed taxpayers, single-member and multi-member LLCs, and small businesses. We also handle amendments, prior-year returns, and basic tax planning.

How much do your tax preparation services cost?

Pricing depends on the complexity of your return — number of forms, businesses, states, and any special situations. We’ll review your situation and provide a starting estimate before we begin. You can also choose our DIY online filing option for $29.99 + filing fees.

Can I work with you remotely for tax preparation?

Yes. Many of our clients work with us virtually. You can upload your documents securely through our client portal, meet by phone or video, and sign electronically where allowed.

What should I bring to my tax appointment?

At a minimum, we recommend W-2s, 1099s, last year’s tax return, photo ID, Social Security numbers for you and any dependents, and any major income or deduction documents (mortgage interest, retirement contributions, business expenses, etc.). Our Tax Services page includes a detailed checklist.

Bookkeeping Questions

Do I have to be local to use your bookkeeping services?

No. Bookkeeping can often be done fully remote using secure access to your accounting system and bank feeds. We’ll discuss your tools and set up a process that works for you.

What bookkeeping platforms do you support?

We commonly work with cloud-based accounting tools, bank and credit card feeds, and common payment processors. If you already have a system, we’ll evaluate it; if not, we can recommend a setup that fits your size and industry.

How do you price monthly bookkeeping?

Monthly fees are based on your transaction volume, number of accounts, and complexity of your business. During a short strategy call, we’ll review your situation and provide a quote before you commit to a package.

Can you help if my books are behind or a mess?

Yes — we offer catch-up and clean-up bookkeeping projects. We’ll look at how many months or years you’re behind, how many accounts you use, and how complex your situation is, then give you a project estimate and timeline.

Business Partner Packages

What is a Business Partner Package?

Our Business Partner Packages bundle monthly bookkeeping support, ongoing communication, and year-end business tax preparation into one relationship designed to support 1099s and small business owners all year long.

How does the “tax prep included” part work?

Business tax preparation is included for clients who have been on a Business Partner Package for at least six months in the calendar year, or who commit to a six-month partnership. That way, we know your books are accurate and we can stand behind the return.

Which package should I choose: Essential, Growth, or Premium?

It depends on your size, complexity, and how much advisory support you want. Essential is best for lean operations and straightforward books. Growth includes review calls and more guidance. Premium is designed for established businesses that want deeper strategy and custom reporting. We’ll recommend a fit on your discovery call.

Can I move between packages as my business grows?

Yes. As your revenue, transaction volume, or needs change, we can revisit your package and adjust up or down so that your support scales with your business.

Notary Questions

Do you offer mobile notary services?

Yes. We provide mobile notary services throughout the Birmingham Metro Area and can travel to homes, offices, hospitals, nursing homes, and other agreed locations.

How much do you charge for mobile notary services?

Our standard mobile fee is $45 for the first 60 miles round trip, plus $0.72 per additional mile round trip and $10 per notarial stamp. For unusual or long-distance requests, you can call for a custom quote before we travel.

What do I need to have ready for a notarization?

You’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID for each signer, the document filled out (but unsigned), and any required witnesses. If you’re unsure about witness requirements, contact us before your appointment.

Loan Signing Questions

Who do you provide loan signing services for?

We serve title companies, lenders, banks, attorneys, signing services, and real estate professionals who need a reliable signing agent for their borrowers in the Birmingham Metro Area.

What kinds of loan signings do you handle?

We handle purchase and sale packages, refinances, HELOCs, some reverse mortgages, and other real estate-related signings. If you have a unique package, contact us with details.

How do you handle scan-backs and shipping?

We follow your instructions for scan-backs and document drop-offs or shipping, including same-day returns when required. We confirm expectations before the appointment so there are no surprises.

DIY Tax & Secure Portal

What is the $29.99 DIY tax option?

Our DIY tax option lets you prepare and file your own return online using a trusted platform for $29.99 plus filing fees. It’s a great fit for simpler situations when you’re comfortable handling the details yourself.

How do I know if I should choose DIY or full-service tax prep?

If your situation is straightforward (one or two W-2s, limited deductions), DIY can work well. If you have 1099 income, a business, rental property, multiple states, or major life changes, full-service preparation is usually safer and more valuable.

Is the secure portal required?

The secure portal is the preferred way to send sensitive financial documents. It helps protect your information and keep everything organized. We may also use encrypted email or in-person document exchange when appropriate.

General Questions

Are you accepting new clients?

In most cases, yes. Our capacity varies by season (especially during tax season), so the best way to confirm is to contact us or book a quick discovery call.

Do you offer payment plans?

For some services, we can discuss payment structures or monthly arrangements, especially when you’re on a Business Partner Package. We’ll talk through options during your call.

Frequently Asked Questions