Accounting FAQ

Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions for our accounting services. If you don’t find what you’re looking for please call during regular business hours 847-367-0888 or send us a message. We’re here to help and are happy to provide you with more information.

Can I set up a time to meet with someone at your office to discuss accounting services?

The best way to get started with Kakenmaster & Associates is to schedule a time to meet with Peter Kakenmaster for a no-cost consultation. We can meet at our office or your office, whichever is most convenient for you. During this meeting, we will review your existing accounting practices, as well as the variety of accounting services Kakenmaster & Associates can provide.

I am starting a business; can you help me decide which type of entity I should be set up as?

The accounting and tax professionals at Kakenmaster & Associates are well versed in the intricacies of each entity type. Based on your specific situation and goals, we can help you determine the entity selection that makes the most sense for you from a business and personal perspective.

I am not currently using an accounting software; can I still work with your office?

Yes, regardless of your existing accounting processes, Kakenmaster & Associates can tailor an accounting program to meet your current needs, and to grow with your business. Our systems can integrate with your existing processes, and we can help you set up new processes to enhance your accounting without burdening you with more work.

Do you offer evening and weekend appointment times?

Yes, our regular office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM. If an appointment is required outside of these hours, please contact our office. You can schedule a meeting by calling our office 847-367-0888, or by sending a message.

Personal and Business Taxes FAQ

Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions for our tax services. If you don’t find what you’re looking for please call during regular business hours 847-367-0888 or send us a message. We’re here to help and are happy to provide you with more information.

What is your tax preparation fee for filing a personal tax return?

Our tax preparation fee varies based on the schedules required to complete a client’s tax return. You’ll find that our pricing is competitive with national firms. For the most basic return, including only W-2 data, our fee begins at $225 and includes both the federal and state returns. We are happy to provide an estimate over the phone based on the schedules included in your prior year tax return. Prior to beginning your return, one of our tax preparers can provide a firm price after reviewing the data you have submitted and a copy of your prior year return. We do offer a discounted rate of $50 for dependents with only a W-2.

Do you offer evening and weekend appointment times?

Yes, year-round our office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Our hours extend during tax season (February 1 – April 15) to Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 7:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:30 AM until 3:30 PM. If an appointment is required outside of these hours, please call our office 847-367-0888 or send us a message.

Do I have to meet in person to do my taxes?

In addition to appointment tax preparation, our office also offers convenient drop-off and cloud-based options for tax return preparation. You may either drop off your tax paperwork at our office or upload digital copies of your data to our secure client portal. Your return will be assigned to one of our preparers who will be in touch with any questions, and to review the results of your tax return.

Can you prepare both my business and personal tax return?

Yes, Kakenmaster & Associates can assist with all your personal and business tax needs. We find that a synergy is created when our office prepares both the business and personal tax returns. We can assist with tax preparation for individuals, partnerships, estates, s-corps, c-corps, non-profits.

I received a letter from the IRS regarding a return your office did not prepare, can you assist me with reviewing and responding?

Yes, please contact our office so that we can coordinate obtaining a copy of the letter. After reviewing, one of our preparers will provide a proposal on how to proceed.

I have a tax question outside of tax season, can your office assist?

Yes, at Kakenmaster & Associates, we consider tax preparation a year-round business. We have tax preparers available throughout the year to assist with tax preparation, tax planning, and responding to inquiries from taxing authorities.

Another tax preparer completed my tax return. Can your office review the completed return?

With so many recent tax law changes, you may find yourself looking for a second set of eyes on your tax return. If you have questions about your completed return, please call 847-367-0888 or send us a message so that we can coordinate obtaining a copy. One of our preparers can review your return, answer any questions you may have, and provide a proposal if additional steps are recommended.

I need assistance with tax planning, is that something your office can help me with?

At Kakenmaster & Associates, we find that the best way to avoid an unforeseen outcome or balance due is through diligent tax planning with periodic check-ins on your withholding. Please contact our office to schedule a time for a phone or in person review.

In addition, when planning for the future, it is helpful to have an expert that can review the tax implications of various life changes with you. Whether it is purchasing a new home, putting aside money for your child’s college tuition, or planning to retire, our tax preparers can help you understand how each item will impact your tax situation.

I live outside Illinois, can your office still prepare my tax return?

Yes, our office serves all 50 states and can also assist with preparing multi-state tax returns.

I am self-employed, can you assist me with tax planning?

Yes, many of our clients are self-employed with variable income. Our office can assist you with tax planning, setting up estimated tax payments, and periodic reviews to ensure the results of your tax return meet your expectations.

*Prices are subject to change, for up to date pricing please call or send a message.