Our history
Philipps and Brooks CPAs, PC, is a full-service tax and accounting firm in East Aurora, New York. With all the new changes in the new tax code, we invite you to view our website and see how we can assist you in deciphering what it all means to you and your world. Our company has practiced successfully in Western New York for over 40 years and we look forward to sharing our expertise with you. Look for our Facebook page where we offer tax tips and touch on a few of the latest developments in the tax world. We specialize in the individual and small business income tax and accounting service industry.
Common questions
Can I file federal & state extensions April 15th & not have to pay my tax liability until Oct 15th?
No. Filing the federal and NYS extensions on April 15th which extend the filing of your tax return to October 15th, only permits an extension to file the actual paper documents. Any tax liability due with the returns must be sent on April 15 with the extension request. If not, there are penalty and interest charges assessed up until the liability is paid. Tack that onto a hefty tax bill and you could really be significantly increasing the amount. If you need to extend the mailing of your tax documents until October, it is best to estimate any amount due and mail it on April 15.
We usually suggest that first-time clients to meet with us via video conference or in-person to discuss your tax return. We like to get to know the face that goes with the voice! We also suggest this if yours is a complex return with additional schedules or extenuating circumstances such as a move, marriage, divorce, death of spouse or business income and expenses. However, most of our clients find it more secure and convenient upload to the tax dome client portal or drop off their information. While we have extended tax hours during the filing season, our East Aurora office has a drop slot if you can’t make it to Philipps and Brooks during that timeframe. We do still accept dropped off or mailed in documents, however we encourage using our client portal / tax dome for security and expediency.
Should I drop off my tax return information or schedule an appointment with a tax preparer?
What are your fees?
Please know that we pride ourselves on exceptional service at what we believe to be reasonable rates. Research has determined that our tax preparation fees are comparable to other tax preparation firms. In many circumstances, we have found that our rates are even less expensive than the national chains. For services other than tax preparation, the fee is based on accrued time and hourly rates. We are always happy to provide you with an estimate before any actual work commences. We have four CPAs plus 3 additional tax and accounting professionals who provide the best service in our industry.
There are many reasons taxpayers will receive letters from the IRS/NYS and all of them are not negative. You may hear from one of the institutions regarding a taxpayer identification number issue (see above) or because a required form became detached from your return. Often the IRS will propose a “change” to your return thereby revising the final numbers. These proposed changes are not always correct as the IRS can overlook certain items such as an estimated payment made the prior year. In all cases, mail, fax or drop off a copy of your notice. We will review and analyze correspondence to determine the proper course of action. Sometimes just a phone call or a letter can rectify the matter.
I'm recently married & haven't updated the SSA with my name change this affect my income tax filing?
While it would not have a few years ago, the IRS now will withhold a refund if you have not informed Social Security of your name change. You will receive a notice from the IRS stating that the taxpayer identification number (SS#) does not match the reported name of the taxpayer. You will not receive your refund until you make the change. To save yourself some inconvenience, call for a new Social Security card as soon as you get back from the honeymoon.
I just received a letter from the IRS (or New York State). Am I in trouble?
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