The Help Center
All You Need To Know
Who is the face behind Billups Financial Services?
My name is Lonnisha Billups, and I am Billups Financial Services LLC's owner and tax preparer. I have been preparing taxes for six years. I have volunteered at the Vita Program at Gateway Community College for the past 2 years, providing free tax services for low-income families and students. I am a third-party preparer who has completed Annual Federal Tax Refresher courses and is registered with the IRS to prepare tax returns.
How long should I keep my tax records for?
Keep records for 3 years from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, if you file a claim for credit or refund after you file your return. Keep records for 7 years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction
What are your service fees?
There is a NONREFUNDABLE $75 plus tax fee for consultation appointments. This fee can be paid at the time of booking or taken from the tax return for the choice of paying for tax prep services with your return. Prices vary depending on individual needs and business receipts. The tax software and bank products (for direct deposit or checks) charge fees that I do not control, so prices may vary. I charge a $200 late fee on top of the service charge for documents received on or after April 15th if I am not notified five days beforehand that an extension will need to be filed, along with payment for an extension filing.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask that you please reschedule or cancel at least one day before the beginning of your appointment. A 24-hour cancellation notice is required without another deposit for a new appointment (including illness). I will confirm the appointment the night before via text/email to confirm the phone or zoom call time. Any no-answers at the time of the appointment will be charged a $50 no-attendance fee.
What may I need for my tax prep appointment?
I will be doing phone consultations for the time you have selected for your appointment. I can also provide consultation at your residence. Place of residence consultations is subject to drop off and delivery fee of $25. I will review what documents you may need to file your tax return. You can select options for your tax return service when booking online. Please leave the preferred method in the additional text box. The options are pick-up /drop-off, delivery, and a web-based portal.
How can I pay for my tax preparation services?
I accept different forms of payment. Cash, debit/credit cards, Venmo, and you may also pay from your tax refund. A deposit is due when booking your appointment. A consent form will be provided for signature. Copies are available. If you are not being issued a refund, payment will be due before the tax return is submitted.
Covid-19 Protocols and Safety
I will not be doing sit-in tax preparation due to the rise in Covid-19 numbers. All tax returns will be pick-up and drop-off options. Documents also will be able to be submitted through the tax software portal as well. If you would like for me to pick up your documents and deliver your tax returns to you there will be an extra $25.00 fee for delivery. Masks should still be worn for contact options even if exchanged in open spaces.
How does the Drop-Off /Pick-up Service work?
You must still pay a non-refundable deposit previously discussed as the tax preparation consultation. On the drop-off day, you will provide me with all the necessary documents discussed in the consultation. I will come out and take a look at your ID and S.S. card(s) to verify your identity, while a clipboard with documents will be provided to you to review and sign.
How so I submit prior year returns?
Prior year returns can be created in the software but are not allowed for electronic filing. Therefore, I will mail the federal and state returns. I charge $54 for the tracked shipping for Federal and State Returns. Since the return can not be filed electronically, this requires direct payment.