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Midwest Accounting, P.C.

 

 

Gregory J. Randazzo, C.P.A.

Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents


Q: "What will you do for us?"

A: We will do whatever is required or whatever part of the job you need or want done. We tailor our packages to your needs. We act as an "outside controller" for businesses that either can’t afford or don’t choose to hire someone in-house.

Our typical assignment includes keeping your general ledger on our computer. We post journals that your bookkeeper creates and then we make adjustments. If yours is a smaller business, we can create your journals for you.

We have a Full Service Package and an Individual Service Package that we offer. Below you’ll find information on both packages.

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Q: "What if you don’t know much about our business?"

A: It’s not critical that we know a great deal about your business. What is important is that we know the tax laws, computers and consulting. We do, however, make it a point to get to know your business well once we begin working for you.

The fact is, we do have lots of experience in a wide variety of industries.

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Q: "We have a unique tax situation. How aggressive can you be?"

A: We will aggressively structure your transactions in such a way as to provide the maximum tax benefit to you. There is no reason to fear taking honest deductions to which you’re legally entitled.

Most small business owners are shareholders, officers, employees and possibly landlords. We will help you structure transactions to save taxes while minimizing your audit exposure. We will also help you get the maximum legal amount of deductions you are entitled to for shareholder expense account reimbursements, cars, and other business deductions.

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Our Full-Service Package.

Q: "What do I get for my monthly fee?"

A: The monthly Full-Service fee includes:

  • Monthly journals (if needed, however price is higher)

  • Monthly general ledger

  • Monthly financial statements

  • Bank reconciliations

  • Break even analysis

  • Summarized payroll

  • Quarterly payroll returns

  • Annual W-2s

  • Annual payroll returns

  • Annual 1099s

  • Federal and State income tax returns

  • Personal property return

  • Michigan Annual Report

  • Any other forms you receive

  • Unlimited consultations regarding the above

These are just the reports you receive and the forms we prepare. The real value will be realized from our years of expertise and knowledge which will guide you in the consultations we have with you and your staff.

Also, every month we’ll verify all your balance sheet accounts such as cash balances, accounts receivable balances, and tax liability balances. We’ll make sure they’re perfect in every detail. If there are mistakes, we’ll correct them. An extra benefit of our service is that we can provide a review of your bookkeeper's work for offices too small to split tasks between different people.

We also do a review of your profit and loss to highlight your results and show you the areas that need special attention.

In all cases, we consult with your office staff and make suggestions for improvement. Any financial concerns you may have, such as tax questions, financial worries, accounting, or systems problems or concerns can be discussed with us at your convenience.

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Q: "How can you determine fees without seeing our tax returns or accounting system?"

A: Our fees are based on your activity. We figure the fee by the number of checks you write, the number of journals you keep, and other factors -- such as the form of ownership of your business.

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Q: "Will my fee increase after the first year?"

A: Your base fee may be increased if your business grows. However, if your business size does not change your base fee will not change.

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Q: "Changing accountants is such a hassle. How do I switch all of my records to you?"

A: The first thing we do is contact your previous accountant. We can draft a letter to him or her for your signature telling him of the change. Then we can handle the transition from that point. Or, you can inform the accountant yourself and request that your records be sent to us . . . whichever way you prefer.

We also have a check list for new client set-up which will be sent to you. You will have much of the information needed. We will make several visits to your site to get some background and get to know you and your needs.

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Q: "Is it better to make the change at the end of a quarter or end of a year?"

A: Any time is a good time to make the change. Your accounting is on a monthly cycle and we can jump into it at any time.

Normally there is a small charge for the initial set-up equal to one month’s accounting fees.

If you've had a bad experience changing accountants, don't worry about it. We will handle this appropriately and professionally -- with little or no disruption to you.

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Q: "I don't want any of my records to leave my place of business. How will you accomplish this? How will you accomplish this?"

A: This is easily done. We use a specially designed form called a pick-off sheet. We come to your site and record your business activity. And your records will not need to leave your location. You will always have full control over all of your records.

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Individual-Service Package

Q: "What if I need services that are not part of your full line of services?"

A: We’ll assist you in any special projects you may have, from installing a new computerized accounting system to assisting you in receiving bank financing to performing certified audits.

When you require additional work not on the list, these services are billed to you at our hourly rates for a clerical to a CPA staff member, depending on your needs.

These additional services are usually unforeseen and requested by you. They might include IRS audit representation, consulting, accounting systems, preparation of special formats for financing requests, negotiations, etc.

We can also help you with little things like typing, writing letters, scanning lists, mailings, etc.

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Q: "What if I keep my own system and post my own general ledger?"

A: We can take a copy of your trial balance (either electronically or on paper) and perform all the same services as listed above.

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Q: "My accounting system is a mess. Can you help?"

A: You bet! We’ll work with your system and correct any problems you have. In many cases, remedies are made by simply changing procedures and eliminating bad habits such as not allowing unrestricted access to accounting records. Or by turning off certain software features that get you into trouble. In certain cases, we may recommend that you replace the system.

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Q: "I’m buying a computerized accounting system. How can you help me?"

A: We have a tremendous amount of computer experience. If you’re buying a new system, we can help you select the hardware. We’ll also help you choose between the many popular software packages.

Then we’ll install the system for you in a manner consistent with how you work and with your special needs. We start with the basics such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll modules and go on to the general ledger module. Finally, we train your office staff and consult with you regarding preferences and operation. We do this while we are installing and later after the setup is complete and the system is in use.

We are also experienced computer programmers, so we can tailor your system to your needs. Or we can create custom applications for accounting, sales, manufacturing, or any other type of application you may need. This is something you won’t find with many accounting firms.

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Q: "Can you help me learn how to keep good records?"

A: Absolutely! In some cases we can show you how to rearrange your day and change your habits to get more deductions. The key is to keep logs on what you do, who you see, and why you do it.

You may be surprised how much of what you do is tax deductible but is not being claimed.

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Q: "Even if I select the Individual Service Package, can you still help me to improve my business?"

A: Yes. Being a computer programmer and power-user, Greg Randazzo can help you with any computer-related problem or need you may have.

In addition, we can supplement what your current accountant does. You do not need to use our services exclusively.

The important thing to us is that you get exactly what you need to make your business grow and prosper. And we can help you to do just that.

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Copyright © Midwest Accounting, P.C. All rights reserved.
Revised:June 05, 2001.