We are implementing a new scheduling system to better prepare your tax returns. This new approach will provide faster turnaround times, better service, and a smoother process overall. Since this is new for everyone, please know we’ll offer flexibility as we all adjust.
With our new scheduling system, you will choose a date when we begin preparing your return. Instead of everyone rushing at the same deadline, this spreads out the workload, allowing us to deliver:
Faster turnaround times.
Quicker responses to your questions.
More personalized attention to your return.
In the past, we have had an information deadline for business and personal tax returns. "Upload all of your tax information by a specific date, and we will file your tax return on time"
The information deadline protected us from doing returns at the last minute… for the most part. Here's the thing, the information deadline acted like a target to aim at, with a high % of clients uploading information right before the deadline. I don't blame them, I would probably do the same. This created a huge wave of tax information we have to process at the same time, leading to a delay in open item requests, a delay in returns we were already preparing, and a reduction in customer service so we can try to get returns filed on time.
Enter the scheduling system!
The scheduling system will allow you to select when we start working on your tax return. Everyone will have their own personal information deadline compared to everyone having the same one. This will allow a more even dispersion of returns we prepare throughout the year so we can make sure we are providing excellent customer service (faster response times, faster tax return completion, improved dedicated attention from us).
Even though this is a relatively new system for the accounting industry, we believe this is the future for accounting firms who want to provide lots of value to their clients.
We understand you can't control the timing of when you receive tax documents and unexpected delays. It seems like financial brokers are taking longer and longer with releasing 1099 investment documents. There will be flexibility in some cases as long as our capacity and timing allow it.
If you're unable to honor the deadline date that you select, it may lead you to a situation where you have to pick a time after the deadline. You also may not be able to select a date before the deadline. In that case, we'll extend your tax return, but you'll still need to pay an estimated extension payment to the government.
For example, If your selected date is in March but you miss it, you may need to reschedule for May. This could push your return past the April 15th tax deadline. In this case, we’ll file an extension for you, but you’ll need to make an estimated tax payment by April 15th to avoid penalties or interest.
Since we are devoting more of our attention to you, we ask that you do the same so we can turnaround your tax return as fast as possible. If we request information after we start your tax return and don't hear from you within 3 days, we will put you on our waiting list or make you reschedule.
To help you prepare, we’re offering tax projection services in January so you’ll know what to pay ahead of time.
What's Next?
Sign our proposal to gain access to the scheduling link.
Don't schedule your business return if we do your bookkeeping, we'll schedule it for you.
Once you receive the link, choose your preferred date.
Remember: Dates are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Follow our updates to secure your spot early!
Here are the steps:
Sign proposal
Get access to the scheduling link
Choose a date when we begin tax return preparation
Upload information three business days before the deadline
Provide missing information, if any
Wait for open items, if any
Review and sign tax return
Below the FAQ is an example timeline showing how dates might look for scheduling purposes.
Actual dates will be provided once the scheduling link is live.
Here is an FAQ we created in anticipation of your questions.
What's in it for me?
More dedicated attention.
Faster turnaround time.
How do I schedule a date to upload my tax return information?
You will receive a link via email from our scheduling system using the same email used to sign a proposal.
Click the link, select an available date from the calendar, and confirm your booking.
How early should I book my date?
We recommend booking as early as possible. Dates are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and early booking provides the most flexibility.
Keep in mind that you'll need to have all of your documents uploaded by the date you choose. If you don't, you may have to reschedule or join a waitlist.
What if I miss my scheduled date?
If you miss your date, you will need to reschedule for the next available slot.
Can I change my scheduled date?
Yes, but the next available date might be far away.
Is the date that I chose the date I uploaded all of my tax information?
No, the date you choose is the day we start your tax return preparation.
You will get a reminder several days before to upload your information so we can verify we have everything.
What happens if no dates are available?
If no dates are available, please contact us directly at logan@graftaxco.com
What documents do I need to upload?
If it's for a personal tax return, the TaxCaddy questionnaire must be filled out, all document requests must be addressed, and all applicable tax information must be provided.
Can I upload additional documents after my scheduled date?
Yes, but please notify us if you plan to submit additional documents after your scheduled date. This may affect the timeline for completing your return.
How do you decide the available dates?
The dates are structured to balance our workflow, ensure a quick turnaround time, and allow us to provide exceptional customer service.
Early booking is encouraged for more flexibility.
What if I need my return prepared urgently?
If you need expedited processing, please email us. An additional fee may apply.
What if my time slot is after the tax return deadline?
Your return will be extended.
If you owe tax, you will still want to make an estimated extension payment by 4/15, or you will incur penalties and interest.
You can calculate how much you may owe, or we can help calculate this for you for a fee.
Can I upload information before my time slot?
Yes, you can upload your documents early. However, your tax return preparation will still begin on your scheduled time slot unless we are ahead of schedule.
Make sure to indicate in TaxCaddy that you are done providing your tax information.
When will my return be ready after I upload my documents?
Because this is our first year of implementing this system, we will continue to shoot for a two week turnaround after we have all of the information we need.
We expect faster turnaround times compared to last year.
Can my return be prepared before my time slot?
There may be circumstances where we are ahead of schedule and will work on returns for which we have information.
What if I don’t like this new system? Can you accommodate me in any way?
We will try to accommodate as much as we can as long as it doesn't go against the reason why we are implementing the system.
Why are you implementing the new system?
Because I care about providing my clients with the best customer service and quality.
This system helps us better manage workflows, provide faster responses, and ensure accuracy for every client.”