Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions?
We've got answers.
Everything you need to know about working with SMS — from tax prep to bookkeeping to our advisory services.
New Clients
Getting Started
New clients start by scheduling a free consultation. Click "Schedule a Free Consultation" to book a quick call so we can learn about your needs and make sure SMS is the right fit. After our call, you'll receive an invitation to set up your secure client account where everything is handled from there — documents, communication, and scheduling.
No. SMS is fully virtual. All documents are uploaded and shared through our secure portal, and any appointments are conducted by phone or video. We serve clients throughout Maryland and beyond — location is never a barrier.
We offer three core services:
- Tax Preparation — Individual (1040), Schedule C, and S-Corp returns
- Bookkeeping — Monthly books management via QuickBooks Online
- Financial Advisory — Monthly Pulse and Quarterly Clarity for business owners who want to understand their numbers
Pricing varies by service and the complexity of your situation. There are never any hidden fees — you'll know exactly what you're paying before any work begins. We'll discuss pricing during your free consultation so there are no surprises.
Filing Season
Tax Services
We prepare individual returns (Form 1040), small business returns for sole proprietors and single-member LLCs (Schedule C), and S-Corp returns. We specialize in service-based businesses and individuals with W-2, 1099, and self-employment income.
You'll need photo copies of your photo ID and Social Security card (front and back), plus all relevant tax documents including W-2s, 1099s, prior-year returns, and any other income or deduction records. Once you're in the portal, you'll receive a checklist specific to your situation.
To ensure your return is filed by April 15, all documents must be submitted to our office by March 1. Clients who submit after March 1 may be placed on extension.
Payment is due upon completion of your return, before e-filing. We accept most electronic forms of payment. CashApp is not accepted.
Once your return is filed, your documents are stored securely in your client portal account for future reference. You can check your federal refund status anytime at IRS.gov/refunds.
Ongoing Services
Bookkeeping
We specialize in small service-based businesses — consultants, contractors, coaches, and similar businesses. If you have straightforward bookkeeping needs and want clean, accurate records, we're a good fit.
We use QuickBooks Online, which gives you 24/7 access to your financial data and makes it easy to share records with your accountant or tax preparer at year end.
We focus on bookkeeping — but if you have payroll, we'll handle the bookkeeping side and keep your records clean and organized. For payroll setup, we can refer you to ADP, a trusted provider with great support and competitive pricing.
Financial Advisory
Monthly Pulse & Quarterly Clarity
A bookkeeper records what happened. Advisory services explain what it means and what to do about it. Monthly Pulse and Quarterly Clarity are for business owners who have their books handled but want someone to translate those numbers into plain English — and help them make better decisions.
Both advisory services are built for businesses that already have clean, up-to-date books. However, if you don't have a bookkeeper yet, we can help with that first and then layer in advisory services once your records are in order.
Absolutely — that's exactly how it's designed. Monthly Pulse is the low-commitment starting point at $200–$400/month. Once you've seen the value and are ready to go deeper, Quarterly Clarity ($500–$1,500/month) is the natural next step.
For clients using QuickBooks Online, we can work directly from your books with view-only access. Alternatively, you can export and share monthly reports through our secure client portal. We'll agree on a process that works for you during onboarding.
Client Portal
Our Secure Client Portal
Our secure client portal is where all client communication, document sharing, signatures, and scheduling happens — in one place, safely encrypted. New clients receive an invitation to set up their account after their free consultation. Existing clients use it to manage everything ongoing.
After your free consultation, you'll receive an invitation link to set up your secure client account. The process takes just a few minutes. Once you're set up, you'll complete a short intake questionnaire and everything is managed from within your portal going forward.
Yes. Our portal uses bank-level encryption and is fully compliant with IRS security standards. Your documents, financial data, and communications are protected.
Use the "Client Portal" link in the navigation at the top of any page on our site. That will take you directly to your login page.
Still have questions?
Ready to get started? Book a free consultation and we'll take it from there.

